In pics: PM Modi inaugurates 6.5 km Z-Morh tunnel in J&K's Ganderbal district

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 6.5 km long Z-Morh Tunnel in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel, part of the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, will ensure year-round access to the Sonamarg tourist resort and strategic connectivity to Ladakh, benefiting both tourism and national defence. (PTI image)

Along with PM Modi, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the event. PM Modi also interacted with officials and construction workers who braved harsh conditions to complete this engineering marvel. (PTI image)

The Z-Morh Tunnel, constructed at an altitude of 8,650 feet, provides vital all-weather connectivity to Ladakh. It bypasses avalanche-prone routes, ensuring safer travel and facilitating uninterrupted access for both civilians and military vehicles. By connecting Sonamarg to the rest of Jammu and Kashmir throughout the year, the tunnel is expected to boost winter tourism and local economies. Sonamarg, previously inaccessible in winter, will now become a prime year-round destination for adventure sports and tourism. (PTI image)

The Z-Morh Tunnel plays a crucial role in strengthening defence logistics by providing continuous access to strategic areas like Ladakh and Baltal. This enhanced connectivity will support military operations while improving civilian travel efficiency. (PTI image)

The Z-Morh Tunnel, in conjunction with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, will reduce travel distance from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speed from 30 km/h to 70 km/h. This will lead to a faster, safer journey between Srinagar and Ladakh. Construction of the Z-Morh Tunnel began in 2015 and faced several delays, including a halt in 2018 due to financial stress. Despite these setbacks, the project was completed after nearly a decade of efforts, involving multiple contractors and advanced engineering solutions. (PTI image)

The Z-Morh Tunnel includes a parallel 7.5-metre-wide emergency escape passage to ensure passenger safety. In addition, a third lane on the approach road optimizes traffic management, allowing smooth movement of slow vehicles and faster traffic to bypass without congestion. (PTI image)

The Zojila Tunnel, expected to be completed by 2028, will complement the Z-Morh Tunnel. Together, these tunnels will revolutionize connectivity to Ladakh, ensuring uninterrupted access, particularly during harsh winter months, and improving logistical coordination. (PTI image)

With enhanced connectivity, the Z-Morh Tunnel will not only support tourism and defence logistics but also drive economic growth in the region. It will stimulate local businesses and infrastructure development, creating new opportunities for socio-cultural integration. (PTI image)

The Z-Morh Tunnel will transform Sonamarg into a popular year-round tourist destination, improving infrastructure and livelihoods for locals. Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, praised the tunnel’s potential to reduce travel time to Kargil and Leh, facilitating easier access for residents and tourists alike. (PTI image)