Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the much-awaited Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13, marking a major step forward in the development of Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure. The 6.5-kilometer tunnel, completed in late 2023, is expected to revolutionize connectivity to the scenic Sonamarg area, ensuring year-round access despite the region’s harsh winter conditions.
The ₹2,400 crore project, initiated in 2020, involved the dedicated efforts of over 1,500 engineers and workers to meet tight deadlines. Located on the strategic Srinagar-Leh Highway, the tunnel is designed to bypass avalanche-prone areas that often rendered Sonamarg inaccessible from November to March. The new tunnel will reduce travel time from Gagangeer to Sonamarg to just nine minutes, offering a major boost to tourism and local economies.
Equipped with advanced features, the Z-Morh Tunnel boasts a sophisticated ventilation system to manage vehicle emissions, pedestrian pathways, efficient drainage facilities, and optimal lighting to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience, even in adverse weather conditions.
Local businesses, including hoteliers and transporters, are optimistic about the tunnel’s impact, anticipating a surge in tourist arrivals and a revival of economic activity during the winter months. The once-inaccessible snowy landscapes of Sonamarg, which had been closed to visitors due to heavy snowfall, will now be open year-round.
As the high-profile inauguration approaches, extensive security measures are being put in place to ensure a smooth and successful event.
Security & logistical plans reviewed for Z-Morh Tunnel inauguration
A high-level delegation, including Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi, DIG Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakash, SSP Rural Ravinder Paul Singh, SSP Security, SSP Ganderbal Raghav S, and Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shayam, visited Sonamarg on Wednesday to review preparations for the inauguration of the much-anticipated Z-Morh Tunnel.
The tunnel, a crucial infrastructure project on the Srinagar-Sonamarg road, is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on January 13. Once operational, the tunnel will transform Sonamarg into an all-weather tourist destination by ensuring year-round accessibility to the scenic region, which is typically cut off during harsh winters.
Sources confirmed that the officials conducted a thorough review of security measures, logistical arrangements, and infrastructure readiness to ensure the smooth execution of the event.
The 6.5-kilometer-long Z-Morh Tunnel is set to significantly boost tourism in the region and provide a vital lifeline for local communities, improving connectivity, particularly during the winter months.
