Addressing a gathering at the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, Abdullah lauded Modi's efforts in bridging the gap between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the central government. He commended the smooth conduct of elections in the Union Territory and expressed hope for the restoration of statehood. Paying homage to the victims of a terrorist attack near the tunnel site, Abdullah affirmed that terrorism will not stop the region's development and democracy.
Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Sonamarg Tunnel, Lauds Modi's Efforts
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel on December 24, 2020, amidst fanfare. The inauguration marked a significant milestone in improving connectivity and accessibility to the picturesque Sonamarg valley.
Abdullah's Laudatory Remarks
In his address at the inauguration, Abdullah praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts in bridging the gap between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the central government. He commended the smooth conduct of elections in the Union Territory, held for the first time after the abrogation of Article 370, and expressed hope for the restoration of statehood.
Abdullah acknowledged the challenges faced by the region but emphasized that terrorism will not deter development and democracy. He paid homage to the victims of a terrorist attack that took place near the tunnel site in 2019.
Background of the Sonamarg Tunnel
The 2.5-kilometer Sonamarg Tunnel is part of the Zojila Tunnel Project, which aims to provide all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the Ladakh region. The project is expected to reduce travel time and improve economic opportunities for both regions.
The tunnel was constructed by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) at a cost of over Rs. 280 crore. It is designed to accommodate two-way traffic and is equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including ventilation systems and LED lighting.
Significance of the Inauguration
The inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel marks a significant step forward in improving infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It is expected to boost tourism, trade, and overall development in the region.
The event also showcased the commitment of the government to the development of the Union Territory. It is hoped that the inauguration will pave the way for further positive developments in the region.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1. Who is Omar Abdullah? A1. Omar Abdullah is a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and the current president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference.
Q2. Why was the Sonamarg Tunnel inaugurated? A2. The Sonamarg Tunnel was inaugurated to improve connectivity and accessibility to the Sonamarg valley and to provide all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
Q3. Who constructed the Sonamarg Tunnel? A3. The Sonamarg Tunnel was constructed by the Border Roads Organization (BRO).
Q4. What is the significance of the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel? A4. The inauguration of the tunnel is a significant step forward in improving infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir and is expected to boost tourism, trade, and overall development.
Q5. What are the challenges faced by the region? A5. The region faces challenges such as terrorism and economic instability, but efforts are underway to address these issues and promote development.
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