Sonamarg, Jan 13: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, on Monday, applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his transformative leadership in Jammu and Kashmir, crediting him for eradicating terrorism and turning the region into a “true paradise.”
Addressing the gathering at the inauguration of the 6.5-km-long Z-Morh tunnel in Central Kashmir, LG Sinha emphasized the immense developmental progress achieved under PM Modi’s guidance. “The government led by Prime Minister Modi has not only wiped out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir but has transformed it into a real paradise. The hallmarks of his leadership are peace, progress, and prosperity,” said LG Sinha.
The Lieutenant Governor hailed the inauguration of the Rs 2,700 crore Z-Morh tunnel as a “game changer” for the region. He described it as a “Bhagya Rekha” (lifeline) for Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing its role in ensuring year-round connectivity to the scenic Sonamarg area. “This tunnel is a matter of immense pride. It will significantly improve connectivity and pave the way for a new era of economic opportunities for the region,” LG Sinha stated.
He also announced that the highly anticipated Zojila tunnel, which will connect Sonamarg with Ladakh, is expected to be completed by 2026. “PM Modi has been making your dreams come true, one by one,” LG Sinha remarked, expressing confidence in Jammu and Kashmir’s bright future.
LG Sinha further outlined the extensive development projects in the Union Territory, revealing that road projects worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore are underway. He noted that 99% of J&K’s villages have been connected through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). “In 2024 alone, PM Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir three times and inaugurated projects worth Rs 41,000 crore. The vision of Kashmir-to-Kanyakumari is becoming a reality,” he added.
Underlining the significant boost in the region’s tourism, LG Sinha credited the growing sector to the newfound peace and stability in J&K. “In 2024, 2.35 crore tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, which reflects its transformation into a hub of tourism, not terrorism,” he declared.
The Lieutenant Governor also paid his respects to the seven workers who tragically lost their lives in a terrorist attack near the Z-Morh tunnel in Gagangeer last month.