Congress Critiques BJP's Delayed Z-Morh Tunnel Opening in J&K
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Synopsis
Congress spokesperson Ravinder Sharma criticized the BJP for the prolonged completion of the Z-Morh tunnel, inaugurated by PM Modi. He highlighted the UPA's role in initiating the project and emphasized its significance for local residents during winter.
Key Takeaways
- Z-Morh tunnel inaugurated by PM Modi.
- Congress claims the project took longer due to BJP's delay.
- Project initiated by UPA with Rahul Gandhi's intervention.
- Tunnel enhances connectivity and tourism in Sonamarg.
- Expected to transform Sonamarg into an all-weather tourist destination.
Jammu, Jan 13 (NationPress) During the inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a vital infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting tourism in the region, Congress spokesperson Ravinder Sharma expressed dissatisfaction over the prolonged completion time, attributing the delays to the BJP.
In statements to IANS, Sharma remarked: "We have been eagerly anticipating this tunnel's inauguration for quite some time. The UPA government, with intervention from the current Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, initiated this essential project. The tunnel is crucial since residents face considerable hardships during the severe winter months."
He further mentioned that while the Congress administration launched the project and managed its funding, it was the BJP-led government that delayed its inauguration.
Sharma also highlighted the rail project, which he stated was finalized during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's era, with only the inauguration awaiting during Prime Minister Modi's leadership. "Manmohan Singh accomplished significant rail projects during his time, and the Congress government initiated them. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had even finished the railway project up to Udhampur," he noted.
The Z-Morh tunnel, which will circumvent a segment of the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway that is susceptible to avalanches and heavy snowfall, was supervised by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). Developed by APCO Infratech Private Limited at a cost of Rs 2,700 crore, the project commenced in 2018.
This 6.5 km, two-lane road tunnel links Gagangair and Sonamarg in Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir. Previously recognized for its Z-shaped route, the Z-Morh tunnel significantly shortens travel time, enabling passengers to traverse the 6.5 km distance in merely 15 minutes instead of hours over the old, winding roads.
The tunnel is anticipated to transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist hotspot, promoting local employment, trade, and tourism, particularly by improving access to the Ladakh region, Amarnath Yatra, and local businesses.
Alongside the Z-Morh tunnel, the Zojila Tunnel, currently under construction across the Zojila Pass, will further enhance travel safety and potentially provide year-round access to Ladakh. Collectively, both tunnels will significantly bolster infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
