Sonamarg: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a significant milestone in boosting the region’s infrastructure and connectivity. During his address, he paid homage to the workers who lost their lives during the tunnel’s construction and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making India a developed nation by 2047.
Prime Minister Modi stated, “First of all, I would like to thank all the brothers who worked under the most challenging circumstances, risking their lives for the progress of the country and Jammu and Kashmir. Seven of our labor colleagues lost their lives but overcame all challenges to complete this task. Today, I remember those seven colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Referring to the festive spirit across the nation, he added, “Today, there is a festive atmosphere across the country. The Maha Kumbh is starting in Prayagraj, with millions heading there for a holy bath. The entire North India, including Punjab, is filled with the enthusiasm of Lohri. Festivals like Uttarayan, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal are being celebrated. In Kashmir, it is the time of Chilla-i-Kalan, and tourists are flocking to the valley.”
Highlighting the government’s developmental achievements, Modi said, “India is progressing towards new heights. Every citizen is contributing to making India a developed nation by 2047. This can only be achieved when no region or family is left behind in development. Our government is tirelessly working with the motto of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ to ensure inclusive progress.”
Modi also mentioned key welfare schemes. “Over 4 crore poor people, including those in Jammu and Kashmir, have received pucca houses. In the coming time, 3 crore more houses will be provided to the underprivileged. Today, millions of Indians have access to free healthcare, benefiting the people of Jammu and Kashmir as well. Educational institutions like IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, and medical colleges are being established nationwide, with several new facilities in Jammu and Kashmir in the past decade.”
Recalling his bond with the region, Modi said, “Two days ago, CM Omar Abdullah shared some pictures of this place on social media. After seeing them, my eagerness to visit increased even more. I’ve had a long association with this region. During my BJP days, I spent considerable time in Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Baramulla, trekking for hours in heavy snowfall. The warmth of the people of Jammu and Kashmir always made the cold bearable.”
Discussing the Z-Morh Tunnel’s importance, he added, “You can trust this is Modi. If I make a promise, I keep it. The construction of the Sonamarg tunnel began in 2015, under our government, and I am happy to see it completed under our watch. This tunnel will significantly boost tourism in Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh. More road and rail connectivity projects in Jammu and Kashmir will soon be completed, and the Valley will be connected by train, creating great excitement among residents.”
Addressing Jammu and Kashmir’s political future, Modi assured, “The people of Srinagar fulfilled many promises. Now, the remaining promise is statehood. I urge PM Modi to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, and I trust he will honor this commitment.”
In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister thanked everyone involved in the project. “I appreciate PM Modi for visiting us in this freezing weather and acknowledging our efforts,” he said.—(JKNS)
