Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir into a hub of engineering marvels, including tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. He said that the world’s highest tunnel, railroad bridge, and rail lines are being constructed in the region.
Speaking after inaugurating the newly constructed Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, the PM Highlighed the impressive engineering of the Chenab Bridge, PM Modi said, “Our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. The highest tunnel in the world is being built here. The highest railroad bridge in the world is being built here. The highest rail lines in the world are being built here. The world is in awe after witnessing the marvel of the Chenab Bridge.”
PM Modi noted that he had come as a ‘sevak’ to fulfill longstanding demands of the people. “A few days ago, I had the opportunity to lay the foundation stone for a railway division in Jammu, fulfilling a long-standing demand. Today, I am handing over the Sonamarg Tunnel to the nation, fulfilling another promise. This is Modi—’wada karta hai to nibhata hai’ (if I make a promise, I fulfill it). This tunnel will ease the lives of the people of Kargil and Leh, reducing their hardships,” he added.
PM Modi reminisced about his earlier visits to the Kashmir Valley as a BJP worker, when he would travel on foot for hours through heavy snowfall. “Two days ago, our Chief Minister shared some pictures, which brought back memories. During my time as a BJP worker, I spent a lot of time here—in Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Baramulla, and Ganderbal. Despite the harsh winters, the warmth of the people of Jammu and Kashmir made us forget the cold,” he said.
The PM also extended festive greetings, noting the simultaneous celebrations of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu, and the beginning of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
PM Modi further emphasized the tourism potential of the region, especially during the “Chilla-i-Kalan” period, the harshest winter phase in the valley. “This time of year brings new opportunities for tourist destinations like Sonamarg, attracting visitors from across the country. The work on this tunnel began in 2015 under our government, and I am proud it has been completed. This tunnel will unlock various tourism opportunities in Sonamarg,” he said.
He also underscored the developmental strides being made in Jammu and Kashmir. “The region is now being connected by railways, and new schools and colleges are being built. This is the new Jammu and Kashmir. The entire nation is working together to make India a developed country. Our government, committed to ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ ensures no region is left behind in the race for development,” he said.
The Sonamarg Tunnel project, spanning 12 km and constructed at a cost of over ₹2,700 crore, includes a 6.4 km main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads. Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet, it ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide- and avalanche-prone routes. This will provide safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladakh region.
The newly inaugurated tunnel is set to transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, boosting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods. Along with the Zojila Tunnel, expected to be completed by 2028, it will reduce the route length from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speeds from 30 km/h to 70 km/h, ensuring seamless NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.
This enhanced infrastructure is expected to strengthen defense logistics, drive economic growth, and foster socio-cultural integration across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.