Omar Abdullah Lauds PM Modi, Pushes For J&K Statehood Restorationke

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for delivering on his promise to conduct elections in the Union Territory. Speaking at the inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel, Abdullah acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the elections and expressed confidence that the promise of restoring J&K's statehood would also be fulfilled soon.

PM Modi's Promise on J&K Elections Fulfilled

Addressing a public gathering, Omar Abdullah recalled PM Modi's commitment made during International Yoga Day in Srinagar after securing his third term. The prime minister had assured the people that elections would be held in Jammu and Kashmir, allowing them to elect their own government.

"PM Modi kept his word, and within four months, elections were held. Today, as the chief minister, I stand before you as proof that democracy has been restored," Abdullah said, emphasizing that the elections were conducted smoothly, with enthusiastic voter participation and no reports of rigging or misuse of power.

Appeal for Statehood Restoration

Abdullah also urged PM Modi to fulfill his second promise-restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood.

"Prime Minister, you had also assured the people that statehood would be restored. Just as you fulfilled your promise of holding elections, I believe this promise will also be honored soon, and J&K will once again regain its statehood," he stated.

Border Peace Boosts Development & Tourism

The chief minister credited PM Modi's leadership for improving border security, stating that areas like Machil, Gurez, Karnah, and Keran have significantly benefited from the ongoing peace process. He highlighted how tourism and development have surged in these remote regions due to improved security conditions.

He also spoke about the positive impact of the Sonamarg tunnel, which now provides year-round road connectivity, eliminating the need for residents of upper reaches to migrate to lower altitudes during harsh winters.

Tribute to Workers Killed in Terror Attack

Abdullah paid tribute to seven civilians who were killed in a terrorist attack last year while working on the Z-Morh tunnel construction project in Gagangir. He acknowledged their contribution to Kashmir's development and stressed the need for ensuring the security of infrastructure workers.

Z-Morh Tunnel: A Game-Changer for Kashmir's Connectivity

The 6.5 km-long Z-Morh tunnel, inaugurated by PM Modi, is a major infrastructure milestone in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district. Built at a cost of ₹2,700 crore, the two-lane tunnel connects Gagangir and Sonamarg, ensuring that the Sonamarg tourist resort remains accessible year-round.

The tunnel also features a 7.5-metre-wide emergency escape passage, enhancing safety measures.

The inauguration event saw the presence of PM Modi, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, marking another step towards boosting infrastructure and economic growth in the region.