PM Modi Inaugurates Z-Morh Tunnel, costing Rs 2,700 crore, Ensures Access to Sonamarg Round the Year
Ganderbal, January 13, 2025 — The long awaited Sonamarg Tunnel in the Gandrabal district of central Kashmir was today inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Joining the Prime Minister at the inauguration were Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Following the harsh winters, the region experienced heavy snowfall making the Sonamarg tourist destination inaccessible for tourists but due to the installation of the 6.5 km long tunnel, this will not be the case anymore. The installation of this tunnel is sure to improve the tourism sector in Sonamarg while creating multiple trade opportunities and also enhancing India’s defense capability in the region.
Inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel, which will be a game changer as far as infrastructure for Jammu and Kashmir is concerned. It will boost tourism and commercial activities, which is great for J&K. pic.twitter.com/B4fTTnIlNn
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2025
Overview of the Z-Morh Tunnel and its Significance
Z-Morh Tunnel is one of the numerous key infrastructure development projects that aim to enhance Jammu and Kashmir by Modi’s government. The two-lane tunnel, which is at a height of 8,956 feet from sea level, has multiple state-of-the-art innovations such as ventilation systems, fire controls, and emergency exits. Thanks to this initiative, Sonamarg has now been transformed into an always accessible tourist attraction for millions of tourists.
Tourism Advantages
Sonamarg, often referred to as the ‘Meadow of Gold’, is an attraction point for adventurers and nature lovers. The Z-Morh tunnel will provide users with seamless access to this paradise, allowing them to visit during winter too. Local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and handicraft shops are likely to prosper due to the surge in the number of tourists. Also, the tunnel will allow for the expansion of winter sports tourism business opportunities.
Defense Perspective
In the strategic context, the Z-Morh tunnel contributes to India’s defense level towards that region. The tunnel facilitates rapid and safe transportation of troops and war material to the forward posts near the Line of Control (LoC). This infrastructure project reduces the time for travel to a greater extent and enhances the country’s combat readiness towards any security issues in the region.
Promoting Employment and Trade
The end of the construction work of the tunnel augurs well for the economic development of the area. Better links enhance the movement of goods and help farmers and traders in the area. Products like saffron, apples, and walnuts can now be delivered to markets within shorter times in better condition. The project has also provided meaningful employment for the locals in the area, not only during the development of the project but also due to the expected growth of the economy in the region.
Prime Minister Modi’s Speech: Uniting Peoples, Leaving no One Behind
During his address, Prime Minister Modi pointed out the significant difference the Z-Morh tunnel will make for the entire region.He further observed that Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a center for tunnels, valley-high bridges, and even ropeways, subsequently becoming one of the best connected regions in the whole of India. In his words, “The Sonamarg Tunnel will be a game changer as far as infrastructure and connectivity for tourism and commerce are concerned.”
The Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of the team who have contributed to building the tunnel and promised to the team that the government would continue to support the development of infrastructure. He again restated the commitment made by his government to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to address their expectations by facilitating ‘Ease of Living’ improvements and building strong infrastructure.
Interaction of PM with Tunnel Workers
PM Modi engaged with the engineers and workers who helped fabricate the tunnel, thanking them for their unparalleled dedication to realizing the undertaking of national (i.e., India’s) importance. In reply, the workers related in detail how they helped in the process construction, while the Prime Minister offered encouragement for the government’s support in future sociocultural development initiatives in the area.
Moving Forward: The Development Plan Following Article 370
The inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel showcases once more the dedication of the Modi government to building Jammu and Kashmir after the revocation of Article 370. Other infrastructural developments, like the Chenani-Nashri tunnel and ongoing work on the Zojila tunnel, have been expedited in order to enhance connectivity, trade, and cohesion of the region with the rest of India. The development plans implemented by the government revolve around the objective of improving the lives of the Jammu and Kashmir population through better facilities, education, and job opportunities.
Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah also gave a commendation to Prime Minister Modi for being able to realize his promise of organizing elections in the union territory. When giving his speech, Omar Abdullah said, “Let’s start with you (PM Modi) because you said three very important things here during your previous event in Srinagar on International Yoga Day. I remember that you said that you are working on removing ‘Dil ki Doori’ and ‘Dilli ki Doori,’ and this has been proven by your work.”
Modern Features of Construction
The Z-Morh tunnel is built with the most advanced technology to ensure safety along with working efficiently. They include:
- AI safety systems: A system that automatically monitors traffic and other safety measures.
- Ventilation systems: Providing proper air supply and circulation in the tunnel.
- Emergency services: Quick response system for accidents or any kind of emergency.
- Benefits of technology: a shorter route reduces the times spent on traveling as well as the risk of accidents.
These improvements ensure that the Z-Morh tunnel will become an international standard for future tunnels.
Summarization and Way Forward
Opening the Z-Morh Tunnel clearly shows the Modi government’s determination to develop Jammu and Kashmir post the revocation of Article 370. it is expected that Sonamarg will turn out to be a major tourist center, with benefits accruing to the area and the residents thereof.
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