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HomeInfrastructureZ-Morh Tunnel to Boost Connectivity and Development Between Kashmir and Ladakh

Z-Morh Tunnel to Boost Connectivity and Development Between Kashmir and Ladakh

Z-Morh Tunnel to Boost Connectivity and Development Between Kashmir and Ladakh

The long-awaited Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir is poised to be a major milestone in improving connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the tunnel on January 13, 2025, marking a transformative moment for the region. Located in the scenic Ganderbal district, this tunnel promises to ensure year-round access to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, overcoming the severe winter disruptions caused by snow and avalanches.

For years, heavy snowfall and dangerous conditions at the Zojila Pass had caused frequent road blockages, making it difficult for travellers to reach Sonamarg during the winter months. The Z-Morh Tunnel, built at a cost of Rs 2,680 crore, is set to eliminate these challenges by bypassing landslide-prone and avalanche-affected areas, providing a safe and reliable route. The completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel comes as a much-needed relief for local hoteliers and tourism stakeholders. With the tunnel’s opening, Sonamarg’s tourism potential is expected to see a significant boost. The region, which was previously cut off during the harsh winter months, is now poised to become a sought-after winter destination. Local businesses are already brimming with optimism, as the tunnel ensures uninterrupted access to the area, opening new avenues for winter tourism around the Thajiwas Glacier and Sindh River. The reliable connectivity is expected to transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourism hotspot, boosting the local economy and providing jobs.

Tunnel Features

Spanning 6.5 km, the Z-Morh Tunnel is designed with cutting-edge technology and advanced safety features. Key highlights include:

  • A 10.8-metre-long main tunnel
  • A 7.5-metre horseshoe-shaped escape tunnel
  • An Intelligent Traffic Management System to optimise vehicle flow
  • Culverts of varying lengths for structural stability

These features are set to ensure that the tunnel not only enhances connectivity but also promotes adventure tourism in the region, particularly around the pristine Thajiwas Glacier. While the Z-Morh Tunnel promises substantial economic benefits, the project has faced significant security challenges. In October 2024, a militant attack tragically claimed the lives of seven workers at the construction site, highlighting the sensitive nature of the region. In response, authorities have increased security measures ahead of the tunnel’s inauguration, with enhanced vigilance and checkpoints ensuring the safety of both workers and visitors. The region remains a security priority, with special attention given to ensuring the safety of critical infrastructure.

The Z-Morh Tunnel is not just an important infrastructure project for tourism; it is also a crucial part of a larger plan to enhance connectivity between the Kashmir valley and Ladakh. This tunnel lays the groundwork for the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, which, once completed, will be Asia’s longest under-construction tunnel. Located at Zojila Pass, the 13.14 km Zojila Tunnel will dramatically reduce travel time between Ganderbal and Kargil, from three hours to just 20 minutes, ensuring year-round connectivity to Ladakh. The Zojila Tunnel is not only expected to improve civilian connectivity but also plays a critical strategic role in defence logistics. It will ensure uninterrupted access to Ladakh, a region that is often cut off during the harsh winter months due to snow-blocked passes.

Officials see the Z-Morh Tunnel as a vital step towards strengthening the region’s infrastructure and improving its economic prospects. By fostering tourism and improving logistics, the project is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy and national security. The upcoming Zojila Tunnel will further solidify this strategic corridor, ensuring that Kashmir and Ladakh are integrated into India’s broader growth story. With the Z-Morh Tunnel soon to be operational, the future looks promising for Sonamarg, the wider Kashmir region, and Ladakh, which will benefit from enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and social development. The transformative effects of these infrastructure projects will continue to reverberate for years to come.

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