PM to inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel on Jan 13

Srinagar, Jan 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the highly anticipated Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13. This state-of-the-art 6.5-kilometer-long tunnel, a key infrastructure project, was initiated in 2015 and completed in late 2023. The tunnel promises to transform connectivity to the picturesque Sonamarg area, making it accessible throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.
Located on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, the Z-Morh Tunnel is designed to bypass the region’s harsh winters, which traditionally rendered Sonamarg inaccessible during heavy snowfall. By ensuring round-the-year connectivity, the tunnel is expected to boost tourism, improve local livelihoods, and strengthen economic ties in the region.
The tunnel has been constructed using modern engineering techniques to ensure safety and efficiency. It includes advanced ventilation systems, emergency escape routes, and automated monitoring mechanisms, making it one of the most sophisticated infrastructure projects in the region.
Ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit, senior officials from police and civil administration have conducted multiple inspections of the tunnel to ensure security and logistical arrangements. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Inspector General of Police, and Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, along with other senior officers, visited the site to review preparations and finalize arrangements for the high-profile event.
The inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel marks a significant milestone in the government’s broader effort to enhance connectivity across the Himalayan region. It is part of a series of infrastructure projects aimed at improving access to remote areas, reducing travel time, and fostering economic development.
The project is expected to provide a major boost to Sonamarg, known for its breathtaking landscapes and as a gateway to the Ladakh region. With year-round accessibility, local businesses, hoteliers, and transporters anticipate an increase in tourist footfall and a revival of economic activities, especially during the winter months when the area was traditionally cut off.
The completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel is being hailed as a significant achievement for the region, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir. The project has not only provided employment opportunities during its construction phase but is also expected to open new avenues for the local population. [KNT]