Z-Morh Tunnel: All You Need To Know

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the much-awaited Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13, 2024, marking a significant achievement in enhancing connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. This 6.5 km-long tunnel promises uninterrupted access to Sonamarg, a picturesque tourist spot that was previously cut off during harsh winter months due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.

Key Details About the Z-Morh Tunnel

Inauguration Date: The tunnel will be officially opened by PM Modi on January 13, 2024.

Strategic Importance: It ensures a year-round link between Kashmir and Ladakh, vital for tourism and national security.

Tourism Boost: Winter tourism in Sonamarg is expected to grow as the tunnel provides easy access, even during snow-covered months.

Location: The tunnel is nestled between Gagangir and Sonamarg in the Ganderbal district, under the Thajiwas Glacier.

Construction Cost: Built at a cost of ₹2,680 crore, this project is part of the larger Kashmir-Ladakh corridor.

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Unique Features of the Tunnel

Safety Measures: The tunnel bypasses landslide-prone areas, ensuring safer travel for all commuters.

Advanced Technology: Equipped with an intelligent traffic management system to regulate vehicle flow and enhance safety.

Design:
- Main Tunnel Width: 10.8 meters
- Escape Tunnel Width: 7.5 meters
- Ventilation Tunnels: 8.3 meters wide

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Impact on the Region

Local Economy: Businesses, particularly hotels in Sonamarg, will benefit from the increased tourist inflow during winter.

Military Logistics: The tunnel is crucial for the smooth movement of troops and supplies to Ladakh, especially during challenging weather conditions.

Enhanced Security: Additional security arrangements have been made in the region ahead of the tunnel’s inauguration.

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Future Expansion: The Zojila Tunnel

The Z-Morh Tunnel is a stepping stone to the Zojila Tunnel, which is set to become Asia’s longest tunnel upon completion.

Reduced Travel Time: The Zojila Tunnel will cut the travel time between Ganderbal (Kashmir) and Kargil (Ladakh) from 3 hours to just 20 minutes.

Cost: The Zojila Tunnel is being built at ₹6,800 crore.

Significance: It will provide all-weather access to Ladakh, which remains snowbound for several months each year, while also supporting military movement in the region.

The Z-Morh Tunnel is more than just a connectivity project—it is a symbol of progress, offering opportunities for economic growth, improved tourism, and strategic advantages for the nation.

Z-Morh Tunnel in a Nutshell

Aspect	Details
Inauguration Date	January 13, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Purpose	Establish year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh
Location	Between Gagangir and Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, under the Thajiwas Glacier
Cost	₹2,680 crore
Length	6.5 km
Strategic Importance	Facilitates uninterrupted access to Ladakh, boosting tourism and supporting military logistics
Tourism Impact	Enables winter tourism in Sonamarg, which was previously inaccessible during harsh winters
Tunnel Features	– Intelligent traffic management system for safety and flow control
	– Bypasses landslide-prone areas
	– Main tunnel: 10.8 meters wide; Escape tunnel: 7.5 meters wide; Ventilation: 8.3 meters wide
Economic Impact	Expected to increase local business and hotel bookings in Sonamarg during winter
Security Enhancements	Additional security measures implemented in the region ahead of the inauguration
Future Projects	Linked to the Zojila Tunnel, which will be Asia’s longest tunnel upon completion
Zojila Tunnel Details	– Cost: ₹6,800 crore
	– Travel time reduction: 3 hours to 20 minutes
	– All-weather access to Ladakh during snowbound months
Military Importance	Ensures reliable movement of goods and troops to Ladakh