Jammu And Kashmir: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Ganderbal district on Monday. Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, security was tightened in the area and arrangements were put in place. The trial run of the tunnel was done in February 2024.
The 12 km long Sonamarg Tunnel project has been constructed at a cost of more than Rs 2,700 crore.
It comprises the 6.4 km long Sonamarg main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads.
#WATCH | Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir: After inaugurating the Z-Morh tunnel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspects the tunnel.
— ANI (@ANI) January 13, 2025
CM Omar Abdullah, LG Manoj Sinha and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari are also present.
(Source: DD/ANI) #KashmirOnTheRise pic.twitter.com/FbOP7COfzm
The tunnel is located at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level. According to reports, it will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, avoiding landslide and avalanche paths.
The tunnel has been built to ensure safer and unhindered access to the vital Ladakh region. The newly constructed Sonamarg tunnel is believed to facilitate tourism by transforming the region into a four-season destination, driving winter tourism, adventure sports, and community livelihoods.
An official press release by the PMO’s office stated, “Alongside the Zojila Tunnel, due for completion by 2028, the tunnel would reduce the 49 km journey to 43 km and boost vehicle speed from 30 to 70 km/hr. It would ensure seamless connectivity in the National Highway-1 between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.”
This improved connectivity would provide a boost to defense logistics, as well as drive economic growth and community integration across Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh.
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