Sonamarg Tunnel Opens—What Importance It Holds for India’s Defence and Tourism?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Z-Morh or Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir. This tunnel will improve connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, providing an all-weather route for travellers.

The strategically important Z-Morh tunnel in Ganderbal district had a soft inauguration in February last year. Around 12 kilometres long Sonamarg Tunnel project, constructed at a cost of over Rs 2,700 crore, comprising the Sonamarg main tunnel of 6.4 km length, an egress tunnel and approach roads.

The tunnel is named Z-Morh, after the Z-shaped stretch of road it replaced, eliminating the avalanche-prone, section of the route that was often blocked for months due to heavy rainfall.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which oversees the project, termed it as “engineering marvel” and a game changer for the region.

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Importance of Sonamarg Tunnel

Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level, the tunnel holds immense significance in terms of India's defence needs as well as connecting the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory to the country.

It will enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg enroute to Leh, bypassing landslide and avalanche routes and ensuring safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladakh region. It will also promote tourism by transforming Sonamarg into a year-round destination, boosting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods.

Furthermore, along with the Zojila Tunnel, which is set for completion by 2028, the Sonamarg Tunnel will reduce the route length from 49 km to 43 km and boost vehicle speed from 30 km/hour to 70 km/hr, ensuring seamless NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh. This enhanced connectivity will boost defense logistics, drive economic growth and socio-cultural integration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

The tunnel has a capacity of handling 1000 vehicles per hour, at a maximum speed of 80 km/hr, as per reports.

Its cutting-edge technology will provide real-time updates and seamless connectivity for users. It has public address system to deliver announcements and emergency instructions to ensure safety and traffic management. It also includes electrical fire signalling system to detect fires and alert authorities for quick evacuation and firefighting.