PM Modi Inaugurates Z-Morh Tunnel In Sonmarg - Top Developments

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sonamarg on Monday, marking a milestone in India’s infrastructure development.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the inauguration.

Landing in Srinagar at 10:45 AM, PM Modi flew to Sonamarg to inaugurate the Rs 2,700 crore project and personally interacted with project officials and construction workers.
 
Acknowledging their efforts, the Prime Minister commended the team for completing the tunnel under challenging conditions.

Strategic Importance of the Z-Morh Tunnel
The 6.5-km-long, two-lane bi-directional tunnel connects Gagangir to Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, ensuring all-weather access to the tourist hotspot and the strategic Leh region. The tunnel’s parallel 7.5-meter-wide escape passage enhances safety during emergencies.

At an altitude of over 8,650 feet, the tunnel bypasses landslide- and avalanche-prone routes, making it vital for uninterrupted defense logistics and civilian connectivity, especially during harsh winters.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who reached Srinagar on Sunday, hailed the project as a significant boost for regional development and tourism.

Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
The Z-Morh tunnel ensures round-the-year access to Sonamarg, a region previously cut off during winters due to heavy snowfall. This is expected to enhance tourism and provide locals with better economic opportunities significantly.

PM’s First Visit Post Assembly Elections
This visit marks PM Modi’s first time to Jammu and Kashmir since the assembly elections in September-October of last year. Addressing a gathering, he emphasised the government’s commitment to connecting remote regions with modern infrastructure and fostering inclusive growth.

Engineering Feat Amid Harsh Terrain
Constructed under challenging conditions, the Z-Morh tunnel is a testament to India’s engineering prowess. The construction workers, who braved extreme weather and difficult terrain, were personally lauded by the Prime Minister during the event.