Ishtiyaq Kar
Srinagar, Jan 11 (KINS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir, on Monday to inaugurate the much awaited Z-Morh Tunnel.
News agency KINS reported that around 12 PM, the Prime Minister will visit the tunnel site, followed by its formal inauguration.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister will also address a gathering, marking a historic step forward in infrastructure development and strategic connectivity for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The Z-Morh Tunnel project, spanning approximately 6.5 kilometers, has been constructed at an impressive cost of over 2,400 crore. The project comprises the Sonamarg main tunnel, an egress tunnel for enhanced safety and comprehensive approach roads.
Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level, this engineering feat ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide-prone and avalanche-ridden areas.
The tunnel is poised to ensure safer, uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladakh region, significantly enhancing defense logistics, trade, and tourism.
Beyond its strategic importance, the Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourism hub, promoting winter tourism, adventure sports, and boosting local livelihoods.
When paired with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, slated for completion by 2028, the connectivity between Srinagar and Leh will witness unprecedented efficiency.
This seamless connectivity along NH-1 will catalyze economic growth, foster socio-cultural integration, and ensure holistic development across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
During his visit, the Prime Minister will also meet and interact with the construction workers who braved some of the harshest climatic conditions to complete this ambitious project.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed his curiosity of visiting Jammu and Kashmir’s Sonmarg where he is scheduled to inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13.
“I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy.Also, love the aerial pictures and videos!,” PM Modi wrote on his official social media handle.
Earlier CM Visited Sonmarg to review preparations for PM Modi’s visit.
“Visited Sonmarg today to review preparations for PMs visit on Monday. The inauguration of the Z-morh tunnel will open Sonmarg to tourism all year round, Sonmarg will now be developed as a great ski resort. The local population will not have to leave in winter & the travel time to Kargil/Leh from Srinagar will also reduce,” CM Omar said (KINS)
PM Modi to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel on Monday, CM Omar visits Sonmarag to review arrangements
