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On Monday, January 13, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel, a strategically significant infrastructure project located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Overseen by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), the Z-Morh tunnel has been referred to by NHIDCL as an “engineering marvel.”
The name “Z-Morh” derives from the Z-shaped roadway that existed before the tunnel’s construction, which was situated at an elevation of over 8,500 feet and was susceptible to snow avalanches during winter, which led to the closure of access to Sonamarg throughout the cold months.
Concurrently, the construction of the Zoji-la Tunnel—linking Sonamarg in Kashmir to Drass in Ladakh—is in progress, with completion slated for December 2026.
Initially started by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012, the Z-Morh project has evolved, with the NHIDCL taking over and retendering the contract in 2019.
The APCO Infratech firm has been instrumental in executing the project under the auspices of the APCO-Shri Amarnathji Tunnel Private Limited.
Although the project was anticipated to conclude by August 2023, various delays occurred, including an official inauguration postponed by the Assembly elections in the Union Territory.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is strategically situated to enhance connectivity in the region and plays a crucial role in reducing travel time and improving access between critical areas.
Positioned at an altitude exceeding 8,650 feet, the tunnel will enhance connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg while providing safe access to the strategically important Ladakh region.
The tunnel is engineered utilising advanced construction techniques to ensure safety and durability. Its design facilitates efficient traffic flow and minimises environmental impact.
This connectivity along National Highway-1 will strengthen defence logistics and foster economic growth and socio-cultural integration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
With its ample width and height, the Z-Morh Tunnel is designed to accommodate a significant volume of traffic, including heavy vehicles, ensuring smooth transit throughout the year.
Safety features Equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems, the tunnel includes emergency exits, ventilation systems, and fire safety measures to protect users and ensure a safe travel experience.
The Sonamarg Tunnel project, spanning approximately 12 km, boasts a construction cost exceeding Rs 2,700 crore, which includes the main tunnel of 6.4 km, an egress tunnel, and the necessary approach roads.
When completed, the Z-Morh tunnel, alongside the Zojila Tunnel expected by 2028, will shorten the travel route from 49 km to 43 km while increasing vehicle speed from 30 km/hr to 70 km/hr.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed optimism regarding the Z-Morh tunnel’s impact on tourism, with his statement highlighting that the tunnel will facilitate the development of Sonamarg as a premier ski resort, allowing residents to remain in the region during winter and significantly decreasing travel time to Kargil and Leh from Srinagar.
The completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel is expected to boost local economies by promoting trade and tourism, ultimately benefiting the overall development of the region, in addition to enhancing regional connectivity, safety, and economic growth.
