Gadkari emphasises transformative infrastructure projects in J-K to boost connectivity, industry, and tourism.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari underscored the pivotal role of infrastructure development in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. Addressing a rally after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg tunnel, Gadkari highlighted the government’s focus on road and rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
The newly opened Sonamarg tunnel, previously known as the Z-Morh tunnel, ensures all-weather access to the region, connecting Srinagar to Leh year-round. Work is also progressing on the 14 km Zojila tunnel, which will reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by 3.5 hours. The project is being completed at Rs 6,800 crore, saving Rs 5,000 crore from initial estimates.
Gadkari announced four major road corridors, including the Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar and Jammu-Chenani-Anantnag projects, costing Rs 50,000 crore. Additionally, the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway aims to cut travel time from Delhi to Srinagar to 8.5 hours. He also revealed upcoming ropeway projects to enhance regional tourism and connectivity.
