AQZAR RAHEEL; GANDERBAL: Sonamarg witnessed an unprecedented gathering on Monday as thousands of people assembled to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the much-awaited Z-Morh Tunnel, a key infrastructure project aimed at boosting connectivity and promoting tourism in the region.
Excitement was palpable in the picturesque town as people thronged the streets from early morning, waving flags and holding banners in support of the Prime Minister. The entire area was adorned with colorful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
A woman in the crowd expressed her excitement, saying, “I have been waiting here since early morning. The Z-Morh Tunnel will change our lives by making travel easier and opening new opportunities for trade and tourism in Sonamarg. We are proud to have our Prime Minister here today.”
The Z-Morh Tunnel, connecting the Srinagar-Leh highway, is set to become a lifeline for the region by providing an all-weather route, significantly reducing travel time between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel is expected to boost tourism and trade, especially during winter months when heavy snowfall blocks access to the area.
A man in the gathering shared his hopes for the future. “This project is not just about infrastructure; it represents growth for our area. We’ve suffered from isolation in winter, and now we have a chance to flourish. PM Modi’s visit is a testament to the government’s support for us,” he said.
The local administration ensured elaborate security arrangements and traffic management strategies to accommodate the large crowd and maintain order during the high-profile visit. Officials highlighted that the Z-Morh Tunnel is part of the government’s broader push to improve connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
The project, long-awaited by the people of Sonamarg, is expected to transform the socio-economic landscape of the region by making it more accessible year-round. Local leaders hailed the inauguration as a milestone that will break the cycle of seasonal isolation and bring prosperity to the area.
