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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, 2025, marking a significant advancement in the region’s infrastructure. This 6.4-kilometer tunnel, located in the Ganderbal district, is designed to provide all-weather access to Sonamarg, a prominent tourist destination, while enhancing connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.
During the inauguration ceremony, Modi emphasized his commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated, “You have to believe that this is Modi and he keeps his promises. There is a right time for everything, and right things will happen at the right time,”
The Z-Morh Tunnel, constructed at an altitude of over 8,500 feet, replaces a hazardous Z-shaped road that was frequently affected by snow avalanches, which often rendered it impassable during winter months. This strategic infrastructure project not only facilitates year-round access to Sonamarg but also significantly improves defense logistics by providing easier routes for military personnel and supplies.
With a construction cost exceeding ₹2,700 crores, the tunnel includes advanced safety features such as an emergency escape passage and intelligent traffic management systems. It is expected to bolster tourism in the region and stimulate local economic growth by making travel safer and more efficient.
Modi noted that the project began in 2015 and expressed satisfaction that it was completed under his government’s tenure. He remarked on how this development would enhance the lives of residents in Sonamarg as well as those in Kargil and Leh, alleviating previous difficulties caused by road closures due to avalanches.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is part of a larger initiative that includes the ongoing construction of the Zoji La Tunnel, which aims to further improve connectivity along the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh highway. Together, these projects are set to transform travel dynamics in the region, ensuring uninterrupted access throughout the year.
