Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKPSC)

• 13 Jan 2025

Z-Morh Tunnel

Why in News? 

The Z-Morh Tunnel, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13th January, 2025, is a 6.5-kilometer-long, two-lane road tunnel connecting Gagangir in Ganderbal district to Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir.  

• Situated at an altitude of 8,650 feet, the tunnel is designed to provide all-weather connectivity.

Key Points

• The tunnel is strategically located on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, facilitating year-round access to the Ladakh region, which was previously hindered by seasonal road closures due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.  
  • Constructed at a cost of ₹2,400 crore, the Z-Morh Tunnel comprises a 6.4-kilometer main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads.  
  • It features a two-lane bi-directional road with a parallel 7.5-meter-wide escape passage for emergencies.   
• Beyond enhancing civilian travel, the tunnel holds significant strategic importance for defense logistics, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity to the Ladakh region, which is in proximity to the China border.  
• Benefits: 
  • The tunnel is expected to boost tourism in Sonamarg, known for attractions like the Thajiwas Glacier and activities such as whitewater rafting on the Sind River.  
  • By providing all-weather access, the tunnel is anticipated to stimulate economic growth in the region, facilitating trade and improving the quality of life for residents.  
  • The tunnel is part of the larger Zojila Tunnel project, aimed at ensuring all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh. 

Zoji La Tunnel 

• The Zojila tunnel project was launched in 2018.  
• The tunnel is Asia's longest and strategic bi-directional tunnel, which will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh. 
• Zoji La is a high mountain pass located in the Kargil district of Ladakh. 
  • The pass links Leh and Srinagar and provides an important link between Union Territories of Ladakh and Kashmir. 
• Zojila pass remains closed during winters due to heavy snowfall, cutting off Ladakh region from Kashmir.