PM opens strategic Z-Morh tunnel in J&K, but won’t commit to Statehood deadline.The construction of the two-lane, bi-directional road tunnel between Gagangir and Sonamarg in the central Kashmiri district of Ganderbal cost more than ₹2,700 crore.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not commit to restoring J&K’s statehood, he did state that the new road and railway lines in the Union Territory (UT) have “already ended Dili ki Doori [distance between J&K and Delhi]” during his Monday, January 13, 2025, opening of the strategically important Z-Morh tunnel in Ganderbal’s Sonamarg area.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah showed remarkable camaraderie during the public rally in Sonamarg following the opening of the Sonamarg tunnel, formerly known as the Z-Morh tunnel, on Monday. Abdullah praised the CM’s photographic abilities while lavishing the PM with accolades.
“J&K has faith in PM Modi’s assurances.”
Abdullah claimed in his welcome speech that the people of Jammu and Kashmir now had more faith in PM Modi. He continued by discussing Modi fulfilling his pledges, which included overcoming the divide between “dil (heart)” and “Dilli (Delhi).”
“You spoke to the public on International Yoga Day (Modi presided over the June celebrations in Srinagar last year), and as a result, people have begun to believe what you say. You have demonstrated that you are on the right track to closing the gap between Dil (heart) and Dilli (Delhi). This is your second program in relation to Jammu and Kashmir in only 15 days,” Abdullah stated.
In reference to Modi’s recent announcement of the opening of a separate rail division for Jammu, he stated: “These projects not only eliminate the distance from Dil (heart) but also from Dilli (Delhi).”Before bringing up the issue for the return of statehood, the CM commended the PM for “the free and fair elections” that were held in J&K “without any interference.”
“People want to know when Jammu and Kashmir will become a state,” I said. You delivered on your electoral pledge. My heart tells me that the Prime Minister will soon fulfill his third pledge to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and the region will once again be a state,” he said. The conduct of a free and fair market is what he was talking about.
As a member of the INDIA coalition, Abdullah was a harsh opponent of the BJP and its leadership throughout the election campaign. However, after assuming the position of Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, he has been working toward reconciliation. Omar claimed that Prime Minister Modi was not pressuring him in his first press conference following his oath of office.
The prime minister informed me that we are in the opposition and that you have been given the mandate. No attempt will be made to overthrow this administration. We will provide you the same assistance that we gave the Lieutenant Governor. We will adhere to the J&K people’s directive. Omar also met with the Home Minister and Prime Minister on multiple occasions.
As a member of the INDIA coalition, Abdullah was a harsh opponent of the BJP and its leadership throughout the election campaign. However, after assuming the position of Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, he has been working toward reconciliation. Omar claimed that Prime Minister Modi was not pressuring him in his first press conference following his oath of office.
The prime minister informed me that we are in the opposition and that you have been given the mandate. No attempt will be made to overthrow this administration. We will provide you the same assistance that we gave the Lieutenant Governor. We will adhere to the J&K people’s directive. Omar also met with the Home Minister and Prime Minister on multiple occasions.
