Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Sonamarg on Monday to inaugurate the 6.4-km Z-Morh Tunnel, a transformative project aimed at providing all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg.
This infrastructure milestone is expected to turn Sonamarg into a year-round tourism destination, boosting the local economy.
PM Modi expressed his excitement ahead of the visit, replying to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s post on X (formerly Twitter): “I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy. Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos!”
Abdullah, who visited Sonamarg to review preparations for the event, highlighted the project’s significance. Sharing aerial views of the tunnel and surrounding area, he stated, “The Z-Morh Tunnel will open Sonamarg to tourism all year round. It will also be developed as a ski resort. The local population will no longer need to leave during the winter, and the travel time to Kargil and Leh will be reduced.”
Constructed at a cost of Rs 2,700 crore, the 6.5 km Z-Morh Tunnel is located at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level. It includes the main tunnel, an escape tunnel, and approach roads.
This vital project bypasses landslide and avalanche-prone areas, ensuring safer, uninterrupted travel to the strategically important Ladakh region.
By reducing the route length from 49 km to 43 km and increasing vehicle speeds from 30 km/h to 70 km/h, the tunnel will significantly reduce travel time.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to give a major boost to tourism, making Sonamarg accessible throughout the year. It will promote winter tourism, adventure sports, and create new livelihood opportunities for the local population, with skiing being a key attraction.
The project will also enhance connectivity along NH-1, benefiting both defence logistics and civilian travel. The Zojila Tunnel, which will be completed by 2028, will further strengthen this vital route to Ladakh.
Modi will arrive in Sonamarg at 11:45 am to inaugurate the tunnel. Following the ceremony, he will address a public gathering and meet with the workers who played a key role in completing the project despite harsh conditions.
The event will be attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and other dignitaries.
To ensure a smooth event, elaborate security arrangements have been made
