Twin connectivity projects a game-changer: Experts

The Kashmir valley is on the brink of a shift in connectivity, with the inauguration of two major projects, the Z-Morh Tunnel and the railway link connecting Delhi to the rest of Kashmir. Experts believe that these projects will significantly boost both regional infrastructure and the tourism sector.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel on Monday. The completion of this tunnel will ensure continuous connectivity to Sonamarg, a major hub for tourists, irrespective of the weather conditions.

In addition to the tunnel, another crucial project expected to be inaugurated this month is the railway connectivity between Delhi and Kashmir. With final inspections underway, the rail link is expected to play a vital role in strengthening transportation to and from the region.

The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the region's leading trade body, has expressed strong appreciation for both infrastructure projects. “The Chamber extends its gratitude to both the Central government and the J&K Government for prioritising these crucial connectivity projects that will reshape the transportation landscape of J&K,” KCCI said in a statement.

The body also emphasised the significance of the Delhi-Srinagar railway line, which addresses a long-standing challenge in the region. During winter, the Srinagar-Jammu Highway is often closed due to weather, severely affecting business and daily life. The rail link, therefore, is expected to provide reliable, year-round transportation, independent of weather conditions, contributing significantly to the region's economic stability and growth.

KCCI also highlighted that the Z-Morh Tunnel will greatly enhance Kashmir’s tourism potential by ensuring uninterrupted access to the region. With this infrastructure in place, the Valley is poised to see a boost in tourism, particularly adventure tourism, which has a significant untapped potential.

Rauf Tramboo, president of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, told The Tribune that the tourism industry is optimistic about the two key projects. “The Z-Morh Tunnel was a long-standing demand to keep Sonamarg open throughout the year. We are thankful to the Government of India for this initiative. It will help boost tourism, especially since the area has vast potential for adventure tourism. It could become a hub for such activities in the country,” Tramboo said.

He also expressed excitement about the railway connectivity, calling it a dream come true for the people of Kashmir. “Connecting the Valley with the rest of the country was something we have been waiting for a long time. This will be a game-changer for Kashmir’s tourism industry in the coming years,” he added. Tramboo also noted that the current plans involve a change of trains for passengers traveling to Kashmir, a situation he hopes will be revised for a direct train service between Delhi and Srinagar. He also urged the railways to announce additional trains from various parts of the country to improve accessibility.

Qayoom Wani, chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum, praised both projects for their potential to benefit the local population and enhance the region's development. He emphasised that the Z-Morh Tunnel would aid the locals of the area and further boost tourism in Sonamarg. Regarding the railway link, Wani noted that it would serve all sections of society, particularly those traveling to other parts of the country. However, he voiced concerns about reports suggesting that travellers would need to change trains at Katra, which he argued would be inconvenient for the people of the Valley. "There should be direct trains between the Valley and the rest of the country," Wani stated.