Z Morh Tunnel inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13, 2025, marks a historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir. The 6.5-km-long tunnel on the Srinagar-Ladakh National Highway (NH 1) is set to revolutionize travel, strengthen the region’s economy, and bolster India’s strategic preparedness.
Significance Of The Z Morh Tunnel
Located 10 km from the picturesque Sonamarg, the Z Morh Tunnel is an essential component of the broader infrastructure upgrade in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Features Of The Tunnel:
- Length: 6.5 km, designed for all-weather connectivity.
- Cost: Constructed at a cost of ₹2,700 crore.
- Technology: Equipped with an intelligent traffic management system to ensure safety and efficiency.
- Impact On Travel: Reduces travel time between Srinagar and Leh, providing year-round access to Sonamarg.
The tunnel’s inauguration coincides with the completion of the 14.15-km Zojila Tunnel, which will be the longest road tunnel in India upon completion. Together, these projects will connect Ganderbal with Drass in Ladakh, enabling seamless travel through this strategically significant region.
Boost To Tourism And Local Economy
The Z Morh Tunnel will transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, unlocking immense economic potential for local communities.
- Tourism Revival: Hotel owners in Sonamarg, like Tariq Ahmad, have expressed optimism about retaining staff and staying operational through winters.
- Winter Sports: Plans to develop Sonamarg as a premier ski resort are underway, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
- Economic Empowerment: The reduced travel time will facilitate the movement of goods, boosting trade and commerce in the region.
“This will boost tourism and give us economic empowerment,” said Tariq Ahmad, reflecting the sentiments of many locals.
Strategic Importance Of The Tunnel
Beyond economic benefits, the tunnel holds significant strategic value:
- Defense Connectivity: The tunnel enhances logistical support for the Indian Army’s 14 Corps, stationed in Ladakh to monitor the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
- Year-Round Access: Ensures uninterrupted movement of defense personnel and equipment, even during harsh winters.
Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar, a former legislator, emphasized, “These two tunnels are game changers, strategically and economically.”
Security Arrangements For PM Modi’s Visit
Ahead of the inauguration, security has been heightened across the region:
- Multi-Layered Security: The Special Protection Group (SPG) has taken over the venue, with the area now off-limits to the public.
- Vehicle Checks: Enhanced security measures, including vehicle inspections, have been implemented in Ganderbal and Srinagar.
Acknowledgment Of Workers’ Contributions
Prime Minister Modi’s itinerary includes a meeting with the workers who labored in challenging conditions to complete the Z Morh Tunnel.
“The PM will meet the construction workers who worked meticulously in harsh conditions, acknowledging their contribution to this engineering feat,” said a government spokesperson.
Political Reactions And Credit Claims
The Z Morh Tunnel has sparked political debate, with leaders from various parties vying for credit:
National Conference (NC):
- NC spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar highlighted that the tunnel’s construction was approved during the party’s governance in 2013.
- Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated, “The local population will not have to leave in winter, and the travel time to Kargil/Leh from Srinagar will also reduce.”
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
- BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur credited Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for the timely completion of the project, emphasizing its significance for the region’s development.
Historical Context And Challenges
The journey to completing the Z Morh Tunnel has not been without hurdles:
- Timeline: Construction began in 2013 but faced delays due to funding issues and adverse weather conditions.
- Terror Strike: A terrorist attack at the tunnel’s campsite in 2024 resulted in the tragic loss of six workers, delaying the inauguration.
Despite these challenges, the tunnel’s completion stands as a testament to resilience and determination.
Looking Ahead: Transforming J&K Infrastructure
The Z Morh Tunnel is part of a larger vision to modernize Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure:
- Integration: Projects like the Zojila Tunnel and Srinagar-Leh Highway upgrades aim to integrate remote regions with the national mainstream.
- Employment Opportunities: Infrastructure development generates jobs for local communities, fostering economic growth.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Improved road networks facilitate tourism, trade, and defense operations, transforming J&K into a hub of activity.
A Milestone For Jammu And Kashmir
The inauguration of the Z Morh Tunnel by Prime Minister Modi marks a significant step toward enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism, and strengthening India’s strategic preparedness. By addressing both economic and security needs, the tunnel embodies a vision of progress and integration for Jammu and Kashmir.
As Omar Abdullah aptly stated, “The inauguration of the Z Morh Tunnel will open Sonamarg to tourism all year round.” This engineering marvel not only reshapes the region’s landscape but also symbolizes hope and opportunity for its people.