Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Monday to inaugurate the much-anticipated Sonamarg Tunnel, a transformative infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity to the strategically significant Ladakh region. According to an official release, PM Modi will arrive at Sonamarg on January 13 at around 11:45 AM, where he will unveil the 12-km-long project and address a gathering.
Constructed at an investment of over ₹2,700 crore, the Sonamarg Tunnel project features a 6.4-km-long main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads. Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level, the tunnel will bypass landslide-prone and avalanche-prone stretches, ensuring safer and uninterrupted all-weather access between Srinagar and Sonamarg, en route to Leh.
Complementing this initiative is the ongoing Zojila Tunnel project, expected to be completed by 2028. Together, the two tunnels will shorten the route between Srinagar and Leh from 49 kilometers to 43 kilometers and allow vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 70 km per hour, compared to the current 30 km per hour. This upgrade will ensure seamless movement along the critical National Highway-1 corridor, enhancing transportation efficiency and economic integration.
Ahead of the visit, PM Modi expressed his excitement about the project, stating that he has been “eagerly awaiting” the inauguration. His statement came in response to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who recently inspected the site to ensure smooth preparations for the event.
I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy.
Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos! https://t.co/JCBT8Ei175
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2025
During his visit, the Prime Minister will also meet the construction workers who played a vital role in completing the tunnel under some of the most challenging conditions.
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