The Z-Morh Tunnel – Sonamarg

The Z-Morh Tunnel, a significant infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir, was inaugurated on January 13, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.This 6.5-kilometer, two-lane road tunnel connects Gagangir and Sonamarg along the Srinagar-Leh Highway, ensuring all-weather connectivity to the picturesque town of Sonamarg, which was previously inaccessible during winter months due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.

Key Features of the Z-Morh Tunnel:

• Length and Structure: The main tunnel spans 6.5 kilometers, complemented by a parallel 6.426-kilometer escape tunnel and a 0.6-kilometer ventilation tunnel, enhancing safety and ventilation.
• Design Specifications: Engineered to accommodate a traffic flow of up to 1,000 vehicles per hour, the tunnel supports a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h.
• Safety Measures: Equipped with an Intelligent Traffic Management System and a dedicated escape tunnel, the infrastructure ensures efficient traffic control and enhanced safety for commuters.

Benefits of the Z-Morh Tunnel:

• Year-Round Connectivity: By providing uninterrupted access to Sonamarg, the tunnel facilitates tourism and economic activities throughout the year, eliminating previous seasonal closures.
• Economic Growth: The tunnel’s operation is expected to boost the local economy by promoting tourism and creating employment opportunities in the region.
• Strategic Importance: Alongside the forthcoming 14.15-kilometer Zojila Tunnel, the Z-Morh Tunnel enhances military logistics by ensuring all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil, and Leh, which is crucial for national security.

Construction Timeline:

• Foundation and Early Development: The project’s foundation stone was laid in 2012.
• Construction Milestones: Excavation work concluded in June 2021, with a soft opening in February 2024
• Inauguration: The tunnel was officially inaugurated and opened to the public on January 13, 2025.

The completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel marks a significant achievement in enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in the region, promising economic development, improved tourism, and strengthened strategic capabilities.