PM to Open Z-Morh Tunnel, Enhancing Connectivity Between Kashmir and Ladakh

Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2024, marking a significant step in creating a year-round route between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel will provide continuous access to Sonamarg, which was previously inaccessible in winter due to snow and avalanches.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2024, marking a key development in establishing a year-round strategic route between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel ensures continuous access to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, which was previously inaccessible during winter due to snow and avalanches. Located under the Thajiwas Glacier, it bypasses landslide-prone areas and features an intelligent traffic management system to improve safety and vehicle flow. The tunnel is expected to boost winter tourism in Kashmir and facilitate military logistics to Ladakh.

Key Highlights

Inauguration: Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2024.
Strategic Importance: The tunnel provides year-round access to Ladakh, enhancing security and tourism.
Tourism Boost: It opens Sonamarg for winter tourism, previously cut off due to harsh conditions.
Location: Situated between Gagangir and Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, under the Thajiwas Glacier.
Cost and Size: Built at ₹2,680 crore, the 6.5 km tunnel is part of the Kashmir-Ladakh corridor.
Security Enhancements: Additional security measures have been implemented in Kashmir ahead of the inauguration.
Economic Impact: The tunnel is expected to boost business for hoteliers in Sonamarg during winter.
Future Projects: The Z-Morh tunnel will connect with the Zojila tunnel, which, when completed, will be Asia's longest tunnel.

Tunnel Features

Construction: The tunnel bypasses landslide-prone areas and includes an intelligent traffic management system.
Dimensions: The main tunnel is 10.8 meters wide, with an escape tunnel of 7.5 meters and ventilation tunnels of 8.3 meters.
Purpose: It ensures safe winter access to Sonamarg, reduces travel risks, and enhances access to Ladakh.

Zojila Tunnel Connection

Zojila Tunnel: Once completed, it will be Asia's longest tunnel, improving travel between Ganderbal (Kashmir) and Kargil (Ladakh).
Travel Time: It will reduce travel time from 3 hours to just 20 minutes.
Future Development: Built at ₹6,800 crore, the Zojila tunnel will provide reliable winter access to Ladakh, which is currently cut off for months due to snow.
Military Importance: The tunnel will be critical for the movement of goods and security forces to Ladakh.

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