Z Morh Tunnel: PM Modi to Inaugurate Sonamarg Tunnel, Enhancing Year-Round Connectivity and Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir

Z Morh Tunnel: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel in Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, on January 13, 2025. This strategic infrastructure project aims to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, significantly enhancing access to the Ladakh region. 

I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy.

Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos! https://t.co/JCBT8Ei175

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2025

The Z-Morh Tunnel, approximately 6.5 kilometers in length, has been constructed at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level. Built at a cost of over ₹2,400 crore, the tunnel comprises a two-lane road equipped with a parallel 7.5-meter-wide escape passage for emergencies. This design ensures safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladakh region, which often faces connectivity challenges due to harsh weather conditions. 

Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy

In anticipation of the inauguration, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Sonamarg to review preparations. He highlighted that the tunnel's opening would transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, promoting winter tourism and adventure sports. "The inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel will open Sonamarg to tourism all year round. Sonamarg will now be developed as a great ski resort," Abdullah stated. 

Prime Minister Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming visit and the tunnel's inauguration. Responding to Abdullah's updates, he remarked, "I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy." He also appreciated the aerial photographs and videos shared by the Chief Minister. 

This strategic infrastructure project aims to provide all-weather connectivity

The Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy by facilitating uninterrupted access to Sonamarg, thereby boosting tourism and creating employment opportunities. Additionally, it will enhance defense logistics and promote socio-cultural integration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The project is part of a broader initiative to improve infrastructure in the region, with the Zojila Tunnel also under construction to further reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh. 

The inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel marks a significant milestone in the region's development, promising to enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and contribute to the overall socio-economic growth of Jammu and Kashmir.