Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah showered praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for fulfilling his promise to hold elections in the region. He also voiced confidence that the PM would also restore statehood in the near future.
“My heart says that very soon you (PM Modi) will fulfill your promise of restoring statehood. Today, on this occasion, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming here in this cold… You have a very old relationship with Jammu and Kashmir, we hope that you come here again and again, stay among us and join our happiness,” he said.
The two leaders attended ceremony on Monday to inaugurate the Sonamarg Tunnel. The 12 km long stretch was constructed at a cost of over ₹2,700 crore and enhances all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg enroute to Leh.
Meanwhile the PM assured that he would keep promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir without mentioning the demand for restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir. His comments came duiring a public meeting following the inauguration of the strategically important Z-Morh tunnel — soon after CM Abdullah commented on the issue.
“You have to believe that this is Modi and he keeps his promises. There is a right time for everything and right things will happen at the right time,” the PM said.
The newly inaugurated Sonamarg tunnel will also promote tourism by transforming Sonamarg into a year-round destination, boosting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods.
Along with the Zojila Tunnel, set for completion by 2028, it will now reduce the route length from 49 km to 43 km and boost vehicle speed from 30 km/hr to 70 km/hr, ensuring seamless NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.
(With inputs from agencies)