Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir today to inaugurate the Sonamarg Tunnel, as confirmed by an official press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
According to the release, PM Modi is scheduled to visit the Sonamarg Tunnel at approximately 11:45 am, followed by the formal inauguration. He will also address the gathering present at the event.
The Sonamarg Tunnel, a significant infrastructure project spanning approximately 12 km, has been built at a cost exceeding Rs 2,700 crore. The project includes the main Sonamarg tunnel measuring 6.4 km in length, along with an egress tunnel and approach roads. Positioned at an altitude of more than 8,650 feet above sea level, the tunnel is expected to enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, providing a safer and uninterrupted route to Leh, while bypassing landslide-prone areas. This strategic development will ensure improved access to the critical Ladakh region.
The newly inaugurated Sonamarg Tunnel is also poised to boost tourism, transforming Sonamarg into a year-round destination. It will stimulate winter tourism, adventure sports, and improve local livelihoods.
Additionally, when combined with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, which is set to be completed by 2028, this infrastructure project will reduce the travel distance from 49 km to 43 km, significantly improving travel speed from 30 km/hr to 70 km/hr. This will enhance NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh, strengthening defence logistics, fostering economic growth, and promoting socio-cultural integration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
During his visit, PM Modi will also meet with the construction workers who have worked in extreme conditions to bring this engineering marvel to fruition, acknowledging their dedication and contribution to the successful completion of the tunnel.
