Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir of his unwavering support, promising to help them overcome all obstacles in their path to progress.
Addressing Gathering at Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal District after inaugrating Z-Morh Tunnel, PM called Z-Morh tunnel a milestone in improving connectivity in J&K.
In a grand event attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Umar Abdullah, Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Jitendra Singh, and several other dignitaries, PM Modi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the laborers and engineers who worked tirelessly to bring the project to life.
PM said that the Z-Morh Tunnel is a testament to the resolve of the people and the government to overcome challenges. “For the progress of the country and J&K, many of our comrades worked in the most difficult conditions. Seven brave souls lost their lives in this endeavor, but our resolve never wavered,” he said.
He said the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives while working on the project will never be forgotten. “Despite snowstorms, avalanches, and extreme weather, my hardworking comrades completed this task. They turned the impossible into reality, and today we honor their memory,” he added.
He said the picturesque setting of Sonamarg brought back fond memories of his earlier visits to J&K. “When I saw the pictures shared by the Chief Minister on social media, my excitement to visit this place grew manifold. This valley, covered in snow, is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of Jammu and Kashmir."
PM said his bond with the Kashmir is deep-rooted, recalling his days as a worker in the Bharatiya Janata Party. “Whether it was Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Baramulla, or Ganderbal, I used to travel for hours on foot, braving harsh snowfall. The enthusiasm of the people of J&K was always a source of warmth and motivation,” he added.
He said the inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel is a significant step in fulfilling long-standing demands for better connectivity in the area. “This tunnel will ensure year-round access to Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh, reducing the challenges posed by heavy snowfall and landslides,” he said.
PM said better road connectivity would ease access to hospitals and essential goods during harsh winters. “The problems faced by residents due to road closures will now be a thing of the past. This tunnel is not just a physical infrastructure but a lifeline for the people,” he added.
PM said that his government takes pride in delivering projects on time. “The construction of this tunnel began in 2015, and I am proud that it has been completed under our administration. My mantra is simple: the one who starts the work must also finish it,” he said.
He also said the Z-Morh Tunnel would also give a significant boost to tourism in the area. “Sonamarg and its surrounding areas will attract more visitors, bringing economic prosperity to the local communities,” he added.
PM further said that J&K is witnessing a new era of development, with unprecedented investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“Today, roads, railways, hospitals, and colleges are being built at an unparalleled pace. This is the new J&K that we are building together,” he said.
He also said that connectivity projects worth over ?42,000 crores are currently underway in the UT. “From national highways to tunnels and rail links, these projects will make J&K one of the most connected regions in the country."
PM said that improved connectivity has significantly boosted tourism in J&K. “In 2024 alone, more than 2 crore tourists visited J&K, and over 6 crore tourists have visited Sonamarg in the past decade. This growth has benefited hotel owners, shopkeepers, and taxi drivers."
He said the days of strife and uncertainty are being replaced with stories of growth and development. “Kashmir is once again becoming the heaven on earth. Today, people enjoy ice cream at Lal Chowk at night, and cultural hubs like Polo View Market are buzzing with life,” he added.
He said that the youth of J&K are embracing new opportunities in education, sports, and entrepreneurship. “From IITs and IIMs to Khelo India centers, we are creating avenues for young talent to shine. More than 90 Khelo India centers have been established, training 4,500 athletes in the region,” he said.
He said that women entrepreneurs are also making their mark, contributing to the socio-economic fabric of the UT. “Our daughters and sisters are shaping the future of J&K. Their determination is inspiring,” he added.
PM said that the development of J&K is integral to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. “No area or family should be left behind. Our government is working with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ ensuring that every citizen benefits from growth,” he said.
He further said more than 4 crore poor families across India have received permanent homes under government schemes, and 3 crore more homes are in the pipeline. “In J&K, people are benefiting from free healthcare, better education, and improved infrastructure,” he added.
PM said J&K is becoming a hub for world-class infrastructure projects. “From the world’s highest Chenab Bridge to the Z-Morh Tunnel, these engineering marvels are putting J&K on the global map,” he said.
He said rail and road connectivity projects are transforming the lives of people. “The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, Katra-Delhi expressway, and other initiatives are creating new possibilities for trade and travel."
PM said the people of J&K have played a crucial role in strengthening democracy and ensuring peace. “The credit for this new era goes to you. Your trust, hard work, and hope have made all this possible."
PM said he is committed to walk alongside the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their journey toward prosperity. “Modi will stand with you, removing every obstacle that comes your way,” he promised.(KNS)