Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 6.6-km-long Z-Morh Tunnel in Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on January 13, 2025. The inauguration took place at the tunnel’s East Portal. Connecting Gagangir and Sonamarg, the two-lane bi-directional road tunnel was constructed at a cost of over ₹2,700 crore.
Key Features of the Z-Morh Tunnel:
- All-Weather Connectivity: Situated at an altitude of 8,650 feet, the tunnel ensures year-round connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide- and avalanche-prone areas.
- Emergency Escape Passage: A 7.5-metre-wide parallel passage is included for emergencies.
- Construction Timeline: Started in May 2015, the tunnel was completed in 2024 and had a soft opening in February 2024.
- Strategic Importance: Together with the ongoing Zojila Tunnel project, it provides uninterrupted connectivity to the Baltal and Ladakh regions, critical for both civilian and military traffic.
- Advanced Technologies: Equipped with real-time updates and modern infrastructure, the tunnel ensures efficient and safe travel.
