Omar Abdullah Enjoyed Skiing in Gulmarg Ahead of PM Modi’s Z-Morh Tunnel Inauguration

“Jammu and Kashmir CM reviews preparations and highlights the transformative potential of the new all-weather Z-Morh Tunnel.”

January 13, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took a break from official duties on Sunday to enjoy skiing at Kongdoori in Gulmarg, just ahead of the much-anticipated inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The CM also used the opportunity to review preparations for the grand event.

Also Read: PM Modi to Inaugurate Game-Changing Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir On Today

Speaking to reporters in Gulmarg, Abdullah emphasized the tunnel’s role in enhancing connectivity and tourism in the region. “The Z-Morh Tunnel will enable the development of Sonamarg as a winter sports destination, similar to Gulmarg, making it a premier tourist hub,” he said.

Also Read: Z-Morh Tunnel in J&K Set To Be Inaugurated: Omar Shares Stunning Pics, PM Modi Reacts

The Chief Minister shared updates on social media, including stunning aerial views of the areas around the tunnel. Responding to his post, Prime Minister Modi expressed his excitement, saying he was “eagerly waiting” for the visit and appreciated the images and videos shared by Abdullah.

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About the Z-Morh Tunnel:

The 6.5-kilometer Z-Morh Tunnel, located on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, is a critical infrastructure project aimed at ensuring all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh. Built at an altitude of 8,652 feet, the tunnel bypasses avalanche-prone stretches of the highway, reducing travel time from over two hours to just 15 minutes.

Constructed at a cost of ₹2,400 crore, the project includes a main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and well-developed approach roads. Work on the tunnel began in 2015 but faced delays due to financial issues with the initial concessionaire. The project was re-tendered in 2019 and awarded to APCO Infratech in 2020.

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Tourism Boost for Sonamarg:

With its inauguration, the Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to make Sonamarg accessible year-round, transforming it into a hub for skiing and winter sports. The project aligns with the region’s vision to bolster tourism and economic growth, similar to the success of Gulmarg as a skiing destination.

Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate the tunnel on Monday, marking a historic step in improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region.

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Tags:

Z-Morh Tunnel, Omar Abdullah, PM Modi, Gulmarg Skiing, Sonamarg Tourism, Srinagar-Leh Highway, Jammu and Kashmir Development, Winter Sports Hub