• Source:JND
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sonamarg today, January 13, marking a significant step toward year-round connectivity for the strategically important Ladakh region. Located on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh National Highway, the project is expected to enhance road access and promote socio-economic development in the Union Territory.

PM Modi will also address a public gathering after the inauguration. The project, including the 6.4-km Sonamarg main tunnel and associated infrastructure, was completed at an estimated cost of Rs 2,700 crore.

Z-Morh Tunnel Details 

The 6.5-kilometre Z-Morh Tunnel is situated at an altitude of 8,650 feet above sea level. Its design ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing avalanche-prone and landslide-affected areas. The tunnel, named after its distinctive Z-shaped alignment, is crucial for defence logistics, linking Ladakh to the rest of the country.

This infrastructure upgrade will not only enhance the region’s defence capabilities near the China border but also bolster tourism, transforming Sonamarg into a year-round destination for winter sports and adventure activities.

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The Z-Morh Tunnel, along with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel set for completion by 2028, will reduce the route length between Srinagar and Ladakh from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speeds from 30 kmph to 70 kmph. These improvements are expected to boost economic activity, improve defence readiness and provide seamless connectivity to key destinations such as Baltal, Kargil and the Amarnath cave.

Equipped with advanced technologies, the tunnel offers real-time updates for users, setting new benchmarks for regional infrastructure. The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) describes it as a game-changer for trade and tourism.

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Security Measures For PM Modi’s Sonmarg Visit

Elaborate security arrangements were implemented before PM Modi’s visit. The Special Protection Group (SPG), Jammu & Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army are conducting extensive area domination exercises, searches, and patrols. Drones and sharpshooters are monitoring the region around the clock.

The Ganderbal-Zojila road has been closed to public traffic until Monday to ensure a secure environment. The PM's security team has taken over the venue and established multiple checkpoints in the area.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also attended the event. The project’s inauguration marks a milestone in infrastructure development, underscoring its importance for connectivity, tourism and defence in the region.