"The state-of-the-art Z-Morh Tunnel opens a vital gateway to Sonamarg, bolstering tourism and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir."
January 13, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the highly anticipated Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, 2025. The 6.5-kilometer-long tunnel, located on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, now ensures year-round connectivity to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination that was previously inaccessible during harsh winters.
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Built at an altitude of 8,652 feet, the Z-Morh Tunnel bypasses avalanche-prone areas, significantly reducing travel time. It connects Gagangir and Sonamarg and promises to boost tourism, trade, and economic activities in the region. The tunnel, completed at a cost of Rs 2,400 crore, includes a main tunnel, an egress tunnel for safety, and well-developed approach roads.
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During the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi lauded the project as a transformative development for the region. "This tunnel represents not just an engineering marvel but also a symbol of our commitment to building world-class infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.
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The Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to make Sonamarg a year-round destination, enhancing its potential as a winter sports hub to complement the famed skiing destination of Gulmarg. Authorities have already laid the groundwork for developing Sonamarg as a premier spot for adventure and skiing activities.
The project’s completion also holds strategic significance, improving connectivity to Ladakh and aiding defense logistics in the Himalayan region. A future milestone in this region is the under-construction Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to further bolster connectivity between Srinagar and Leh by 2028.
The tunnel was constructed by APCO Infratech after the initial contractor faced financial hurdles, delaying the project’s timeline. However, the project gained momentum in 2020, leading to its successful completion.
The inauguration was attended by several key dignitaries, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who highlighted the tunnel's role in driving economic and social integration in the region.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is part of India’s broader vision to enhance infrastructure in remote areas, with particular focus on boosting connectivity, security, and tourism across the Himalayan states.
Tags:
Z-Morh Tunnel, Sonamarg, PM Modi, Jammu and Kashmir Infrastructure, Srinagar-Leh Highway, Winter Tourism, All-Weather Connectivity, Adventure Sports, Zojila Tunnel, Himalayan Development
