Widespread celebrations erupted across Karnah as the central government's approval of the long-awaited Sadhna Tunnel was warmly welcomed by political leaders, civil society, activists, and the business community.
MLA Javed Ahmad Mirchal and former MLAs Advocate Raja Manzoor and Kafeel ur Rehman hailed the move as transformative for the remote border region, ending the decades-long winter closure issue and unlocking new development prospects.
Civil Society Karnah, led by Peerzada Sirajuddin and Waqar Ahmad, along with the Tunnel Coordination Committee, BJP leaders, and Apni Party representatives, expressed gratitude to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and the central leadership.
Local voices, including Pahari activists, educationists, legal professionals, and media figures like Dr. Ashfaq Lone and Peerzada Sayeed, called the tunnel a lifeline that will boost connectivity, create jobs, and preserve cultural identity.
All stakeholders urged speedy initiation of work to end seasonal isolation and bring lasting progress to Karnah.