Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the transformative role of infrastructure development in realising India’s vision of becoming a developed nation. Speaking at the inauguration of the Sonamarg tunnel, he emphasised that this historic project will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, stimulating industries, tourism, and employment in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). He stated that enhanced infrastructure would help reduce poverty and drive economic growth in the region.
Mr. Gadkari also elaborated on the ongoing Zojila tunnel project, which will significantly cut travel time and ensure year-round connectivity. Additionally, he outlined various ambitious infrastructure projects in J&K, with a cumulative investment of Rs. 50,000 crore (US$ 5.77 billion). Key projects include the Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar and Jammu-Chenani-Anantnag corridors, which aim to improve connectivity and boost the local economy.
He further mentioned the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra express highway, designed to reduce travel time between Delhi and Srinagar, along with ropeway projects aimed at enhancing tourism. Commending the efforts of engineers and contractors, Mr. Gadkari assured that these initiatives would accelerate J&K’s development under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, paving the way for a brighter future.
