In order to open the Z-Morh Tunnel, a crucial infrastructure project intended to give all-weather connection to the picturesque hill station of Sonamarg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Jammu and Kashmir on January 13.
The avalanche-prone Gagangir-Sonamarg road will be avoided by the Z-Morh Tunnel, a two-lane, 6.5-kilometer road tunnel between Gagangir and Sonamarg, according to official sources.
The tunnel, which takes its name from the “Z-shaped” section of road it replaces, significantly cuts travel time, from hours on the old route to just 15 minutes.
A local homeowner thanked them and emphasised how crucial the path is to improving connectivity throughout the winter.
“It is very important, after its construction, the Sonamarg-Ladakh road will now remain open throughout the year. Since Ladakh is a border area, therefore, for Defence, the normal goods that had to be transported by air, could now be transported by road after the construction and opening of this tunnel. So, this is very important,” he said.
“People are happy, and we thank the Central government. The Prime Minister is going to inaugurate it on January 13. The Central government, especially Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, has taken many initiatives with this,” he added.
The tunnel is strategically essential for ensuring weatherproof communication to places like Baltal (Amarnath Cave), Kargil, and Ladakh, as is the nearby Zoji-La Tunnel. Along with improving military logistics, the infrastructure will boost tourism and the local economy, giving young people in the area job prospects.
The Z-Morh Tunnel began construction in 2018 and is one of 31 road tunnels being built in the area, including 20 in Jammu and Kashmir and 11 in Ladakh.
The opening of the Z-Morh Tunnel strengthens the region’s geostrategic and economic importance by marking a significant milestone in connection and growth.
