SUHAIL KHAN
SONMARAG, Jan 13: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the need to shift the narrative in Jammu and Kashmir from terrorism to tourism, highlighting the immense potential the region holds for travelers worldwide.
Speaking at an event as per Kashmir Despatch, LG Sinha pointed out that the newly inaugurated Z-Morth Tunnel in Sonmarg would serve as a significant boost not only for the tourism sector but also for the Indian Army’s strategic operations.
“People should talk about tourism in Kashmir instead of terrorism. The Sonmarg Tunnel will be a game changer, providing year-round connectivity that will attract more tourists and also strengthen our Army’s logistical support in the region,” LG Sinha said.
He further elaborated that improved infrastructure, like the Sonmarg Tunnel, would facilitate easier access to scenic destinations in Kashmir, potentially transforming the region into a top-tier tourist destination. Additionally, the tunnel’s strategic importance for the military would enhance security and operational readiness in the area.
LG Sinha said, “With the opening of the Sonmarg Tunnel, a new chapter has begun in the history of J&K. I am grateful to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of the people of the Union Territory and creating an environment that enables the common man to flourish and live a dignified life.”
The Sonmarg Tunnel is the “Bhagya Rekha” (lifeline) for J&K, enabling year-round connectivity to the picturesque Sonmarg. It will be a game changer for the local economy, winter tourism, and will also create new avenues for livelihood and trade in the region.
He stated that the Hon’ble Prime Minister has put J&K on a path of progress and prosperity, alleviating past agonies. From darkness, he has brought the light of hope into the lives of the people. J&K has been referred to as heaven in books; he has made it a reality. Today, instead of discussing terrorism, people are talking about tourism.
This ground-breaking project is a testament to the government’s commitment to the rapid and inclusive development of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The opening of this tunnel will not only change the fortunes of the tourism sector in Sonmarg but will also improve the social and economic conditions of this area.
Sinha expressed, “I pay my homage to the workers of the Sonmarg Tunnel project who were martyred in the Gagangir terror attack. Today, we have also taken a significant leap from a strategic point of view and provided strong infrastructure support to facilitate the movement of our Armed Forces. The under-construction Zojila Tunnel, which is likely to be completed by 2026, will also ensure connectivity to Ladakh throughout the year and provide uninterrupted essential services to remote areas.”
The unprecedented expansion of infrastructure, a new industrial revolution, a large network of highways, the strengthening of democracy at the grassroots level, a new revolution in agriculture and the horticulture sector, the rejuvenation of socio-economic sectors, and the upliftment of deprived sections have laid a strong foundation for a developed, self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir.
Peace and stability have transformed the tourism sector. The number of foreign tourists has increased by 300%. J&K recorded 2.35 crore tourist visits in 2024, while 2.11 lakh tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir in 2023.
Under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, we are witnessing unprecedented development in road and tunnel infrastructure.
Road and highway projects are underway in Jammu and Kashmir.
– Work is progressing quickly on the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, Baramulla-Kupwara-Trehgam National Highway, Baramulla-Uri Highway, Pattan Bypass, Baramulla Bypass, and many other projects aimed at strengthening road connectivity in the Union Territory.
– The construction of 8 tunnel projects is progressing rapidly and is likely to be completed by December 2025.
– Work is commencing on the Sudhmahadev-Dranga Tunnel and Singhpora-Velu Tunnel.
– Around 144 road and bridge projects have been initiated under NABARD.
– We have succeeded in connecting more than 99% of the villages in Jammu and Kashmir with roads under PMGSY, and connectivity will soon be established for the remaining 9 villages, integrating them into the socio-economic mainstream.
– The dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari through a railway network will soon become a reality. The opening of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link will usher in a new era of socio-economic development and national integration.
The Sonamarg Tunnel project, approximately 12 km long, has been constructed at a cost of over Rs 2,700 crore. It comprises the Sonamarg main tunnel of 6.4 km in length, an egress tunnel, and approach roads. Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level, it will enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, bypassing landslide and avalanche-prone routes and ensuring safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladakh region.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
