Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal District

Srinagar, 13th January 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel, also referred to as the Sonamarg tunnel, in Jammu and Kashmir. During the ceremony, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stood on his left as the ribbon was cut, marking the opening. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha were also in attendance.
Situated in Ganderbal district, the Z-Morh tunnel offers an all-weather connection between Srinagar and Sonamarg, significantly improving accessibility for travellers.
After inaugurating the project, PM Modi traversed the tunnel, inspecting its layout and gaining insights into its construction process. He also interacted with the construction workers and officials who overcame challenging conditions to complete the project.
Key Details About the Z-Morh Tunnel:
1. The tunnel is named after the Z-shaped road section it replaces, removing an avalanche-prone stretch that was often inaccessible due to heavy rainfall.
2. Spanning approximately 12 km, the Sonamarg tunnel project cost over ₹2,700 crore. It includes a 6.4 km main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads.
3. Located at an altitude of 8,650 feet, it reduces travel time between Srinagar and Sonamarg from over two hours to just 15 minutes.
4. The Z-Morh tunnel features a two-lane, 10-meter-wide bi-directional road, along with a 7.5-meter-wide parallel escape tunnel for emergencies, which can also function as a railway tunnel.
5. With a capacity to handle 1,000 vehicles per hour, the tunnel allows a maximum speed of 80 km/h.
6. It has a modern ventilation system and two portals: Western and Eastern.
7. Construction began in 2015 as part of the broader Zojila tunnel project, which aims to provide uninterrupted access between Ladakh and Srinagar.
8. Together with the Zojila Tunnel, slated for completion by 2028, the project will reduce the route length from 49 km to 43 km, increase vehicle speeds from 30 km/h to 70 km/h, and ensure seamless connectivity along NH-1.
9. The tunnel is expected to enhance the economy and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly along the Sindh River. Travellers will no longer need to stay overnight in Kargil to complete their journey.
10. Advanced technologies have been incorporated, including:
– A public address system for announcements and emergency instructions.
– An electrical fire signalling system for prompt fire detection and response.
– A radio rebroadcast system to keep drivers informed and entertained.
– Dynamic Road Information Panels (DRIP) for real-time traffic updates.
– Speed Limit Variable Message Signs (SLVS) to adjust speed limits based on traffic conditions.
This tunnel represents a milestone in infrastructure development, enhancing connectivity and fostering regional growth.