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J&K an infrastructure hub: PM Modi inaugurates Sonamarg Tunnel

infrastructure

                                                   Image courtesy of Brighter Kashmir

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel, marking the onset of transformative infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir. With a vision to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost tourism, the government has announced ambitious projects worth over ₹1 lakh crore, including national highways, tunnels, and ropeways.

Sonamarg Tunnel: A Game-Changer

With the capacity to handle 1000 vehicles per hour, the 6.4 km tunnel boasts 100 CCTV cameras, hydrants at every 150 meters, ventilation with jet fans, and emergency call boxes at every 250 metres. The Sonamarg Tunnel, previously known as the Z-morh Tunnel, is a crucial part of the Zojila Tunnel Project. 

Transforming J&K’s connectivity

With an estimated increase of 40% in tourist footfall, the tunnel stands to boost the economy and improve the Srinagar to Leh connectivity by bringing down the travel time.

Addressing a public gathering, PM Modi emphasised J&K’s emergence as a hub for state-of-the-art tunnels, high bridges, and ropeways. 

The Chenab Bridge, an engineering marvel, recently witnessed a passenger train trial run, showcasing India’s prowess in infrastructure development.

Ropeway projects are planned for Shankaracharya Temple, Shivkhori, and Baltal-Amarnath, enhancing accessibility for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Accelerated Infrastructure developments

₹42,000 crore worth of projects are underway, including four national highways and two ring roads for Jammu and Srinagar. Over 14 tunnels are in construction, making J&K one of India’s most connected regions. The road transport minister, Nitin Gadkari, announced the timelines for the same.

Highlighting the pivotal role of infrastructure, he stated that it is the cornerstone of a prosperous India.

Upcoming ring roads for Jammu and Srinagar are to be completed within 18 months, further easing transportation. The region is poised to become a connectivity and tourism powerhouse.

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