Srinagar, Jan 11 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir administration is making preparations for the high-profile inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13. The 6.4 km tunnel, a crucial infrastructure project on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Sonamarg, and Kargil in Ladakh.
As per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Z-Morh Tunnel is part of the broader Zojila tunnel project, designed to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh via a 12,000-foot high tunnel currently under construction and slated for completion by 2026.
The tunnel has been built at an elevation of over 8,650 feet and is equipped with advanced safety features such as an escape tunnel, ventilation systems, and culverts designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
The construction of the Z-Morh Tunnel has been completed at a cost of approximately Rs 2,680 crore. The tunnel's inauguration will be attended by high-profile dignitaries including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
In a separate development, traffic on the Kargil-Srinagar highway, including the Zojila Pass, will be suspended from January 11 to January 14 due to icy road conditions and inclement weather, with maintenance work scheduled during this period.
Traffic is expected to resume on January 13, depending on weather conditions. PM Modi's inauguration of the tunnel on January 13 will take place around 11:45 am, followed by an address to the gathered audience. The Sonamarg Tunnel project consists of the main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads.
It tunnel will enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, providing a safer and uninterrupted route to Leh while bypassing avalanche-prone areas and landslide routes.
The tunnel is expected to boost tourism by making Sonamarg a year-round destination by supporting winter tourism, adventure sports and local livelihoods. Along with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, which is set for completion by 2028, the Sonamarg Tunnel will reduce the travel distance from 49 km to 43 km, increasing vehicle speeds from 30 km/hr to 70 km/hr. This improved connectivity will ensure a seamless link between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh, benefiting both defence logistics and regional economic growth. It will also promote socio-cultural integration between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. During his visit, the Prime Minister will meet the dedicated construction workers who endured harsh conditions to complete this engineering marvel, acknowledging their crucial role in the project’s success—(KNO)