Ganderbal, Jan 16: The residents of Shitkari village located just a mile from the health resort of Sonamarg, along the banks of the Sindh River, have expressed happiness over the construction and inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week. This village, dependent on tourism for their livelihood, had long faced challenges due to the seasonal closure of the Sonamarg route.
Historically, the residents of Shitkari, a village that thrives on tourism, faced severe challenges each winter. Heavy snowfall, avalanches, and a lack of basic facilities forced families to migrate from their homes every November, disrupting their lives and livelihoods. However, the opening of the Sonamarg Tunnel has finally addressed these issues, providing a permanent solution to their annual migration struggles.
Locals said they can now reside in their village throughout the year, even during the harsh winter months. This development also allows them to sustain their tourism-based income during the snowy season, as Sonamarg continues to attract winter tourists.
“With the tunnel open, we no longer need to leave our homes every winter,” said a resident of Shitkari. “We can now work in Sonamarg even during heavy snowfall and continue earning a livelihood.”
Shitkari is also a key stop for tourists traveling to Vishansar Lake for trekking, with many spending a night in the village before starting their trek. Recognizing this, locals have adapted to the growing tourism demand by transforming their homes into guesthouses, offering accommodations to visitors eager to explore the area’s natural beauty.
This initiative has not only enhanced the tourism experience but has also created new economic opportunities for the residents, they said.
