After years of anticipation, Sonamarg, one of Kashmir’s most picturesque destinations, is set to remain open for tourists during the winter season with the expected inauguration of the 6.5-km Z-Morh Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13.
The tunnel, along with the Gagangir-Sonamarg road, was initiated around a half decade before as part of a ₹2,400 crore project aimed at ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. The project was awarded to APCO by the Government of India.
This long-awaited development is expected to transform Sonamarg’s tourism potential, especially during winter months when heavy snowfall and avalanche threats on the Hung stretch have previously hindered access. Stakeholders, including local hoteliers and shopkeepers, anticipate a significant boost in business and job opportunities with the tunnel’s opening. “Keeping Sonamarg open in winter has always been a challenge, but this tunnel will finally resolve those issues. It’s a game-changer for everyone associated with the tourism sector here,” said a local business owner.
The 6.5 km Z-Morh Tunnel, located near Gagangir in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, is designed to provide all-weather connectivity to the Sonamarg valley, which has remained cut off during winter due to treacherous conditions on the Hung stretch.
The tunnel’s inauguration is also seen as a crucial step in improving the region’s economy. “This will improve livelihoods for hoteliers and shopkeepers while attracting more tourists in winter,” said a stakeholder from Sonamarg.
Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his optimism about the project on social media platform X, stating, “J&K, especially central Kashmir, looks forward to the inauguration of a vital piece of infrastructure. This asset will be a game-changer for the expansion of winter tourism in the valley.”
Locals from the Gagangir area shared their excitement, with many describing the event as a “momentous occasion.” A resident remarked, “We are very happy that the tunnel is going to be inaugurated soon. It’s a great moment for us.”
The tunnel is not only expected to cut travel time but also strengthen the region’s connectivity, promoting winter tourism and economic development in Sonamarg and surrounding areas, said a group of local residents.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to usher in a new era of development for Sonamarg, ensuring it thrives as a year-round tourist destination and further solidifying its place on the global tourism map.
