Ganderbal, Jan13: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that the narrative in Kashmir has now changed, with people discussing tourism instead of terrorism.
Speaking at a gathering in Sonamarg, Central Kashmir, Sinha emphasised the vast tourism potential of the region and the transformative impact of recent infrastructure projects like the newly inaugurated Z-Morh Tunnel.
“The Sonamarg Tunnel will be a game-changer,” LG Sinha said, adding that it will provide year-round connectivity that will not only boost tourism but also enhance logistical support for the Army in the region. “Instead of terrorism, people now talk about tourism in Kashmir,” he added.
Sinha noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is eradicating terrorism and transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a paradise for both locals and visitors. He also pointed out the Z-Morh Tunnel’s ₹2,700 crore construction cost, emphasizing its significance for both tourism and national security. “Improved infrastructure, like the Sonamarg Tunnel, is vital for providing easier access to Kashmir’s scenic destinations, potentially making it a global tourist hub,” LG Sinha said.
Acknowledging the tunnel’s impact on the local economy, LG Sinha referred to it as the “Bhagya Rekha” (lifeline) of the region, which will foster winter tourism, create new livelihood opportunities, and enhance trade in the area.
He also paid tribute to the workers martyred in the Gagangir terror attack last year during the tunnel’s construction. “Today, we have taken a big leap forward strategically, providing strong infrastructure support for our Armed Forces,” he said.
Sinha highlighted ongoing infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir, including the under-construction Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to be completed by 2026. This will ensure year-round connectivity to Ladakh and continuous essential services to remote areas.
The Lieutenant Governor also outlined the state’s unprecedented infrastructure growth, including road and tunnel projects, agricultural reforms, and the upliftment of socio-economic sectors. He noted that Jammu and Kashmir has seen a remarkable 300% increase in foreign tourists, with a total of 2.35 crore tourist visits recorded in 2024.
Under PM Modi’s leadership, J&K is witnessing extensive road and highway projects, including the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and Baramulla-Kupwara-Trehgam National Highway. Additionally, eight major tunnel projects are expected to be completed by December 2025, further enhancing the region’s connectivity.
Sinha also shared that over 99% of Jammu and Kashmir’s villages have been connected by roads under the PMGSY, with plans to connect the remaining 9 villages soon. The dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari via a railway network is on track, with the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link set to be inaugurated soon, paving the way for socio-economic development and national integration.
The Sonamarg Tunnel, a 12 km-long project constructed at a cost of ₹2,700 crore, features a 6.4km main tunnel and an egress tunnel. Situated at over 8,650 feet above sea level, it will provide safer, all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide-prone routes and ensuring continuous access to the strategically critical Ladakh region.
