The Z-Morh Tunnel is situated in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. This 6.5 km bi-directional tunnel connects Gagangir and Sonamarg, areas that were often isolated during heavy snowfall. The tunnel features 6.5 km of approach roads leading to both entrances. At an elevation of about 2,637 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level, it ensures year-round access and facilitates travel for passengers. Additionally, the tunnel includes a 7.5-meter-wide emergency escape route designed for both emergency evacuations and potential railway use. Constructed using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), it is recognized for its effectiveness in navigating difficult geographical conditions. The tunnel was developed not only to enhance civilian travel but also to support military logistics in the area. It is part of the broader NH-1 Srinagar-Leh Highway network. The Z-Morh Tunnel replaces a Z-shaped section of road that was vulnerable to avalanches and landslides, thereby improving the safety and efficiency for travelers. The tunnel begins at Gagangir and ends at Sonamarg.
This tunnel stretches for about 6.5 km and will significantly cut down the travel time between Srinagar and Sonamarg. However, the Zojila tunnel, expected to be completed by the end of 2028, will further enhance connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. Construction of the Z-Morh tunnel began in May 2015 but faced several delays when the original contractor, Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS), halted work due to a financial crisis in 2018. The project was ultimately completed at a cost of around Rs 2,700 crore in 2024. The name "Z-Morh" comes from the Z-shaped roadway that existed before the tunnel was built, which was located at an elevation of over 8,500 feet and prone to snow avalanches in winter, causing the road to Sonamarg to remain closed. Meanwhile, the construction of the Zoji-la tunnel, which will connect Sonamarg in Kashmir to Drass in Ladakh, is ongoing, with a completion target set for December 2028.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi physically inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, on January 13, 2025. This event was significant, with Modi joined by LG Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, MoS PMO Dr. Jitendra Singh, and other senior officials from the central government and the Union Territory at the ceremony. During his address at the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to those who lost their lives during its construction. He emphasized that this tunnel will provide safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically important Ladakh region.
This besides creating much needed connectivity and safe and easy travel and reduction in travel time between Srinagar and Sonamarg, will promote local economy. When completed, the Z-Morh tunnel, alongside the Zojila Tunnel expected by 2028,will shorten the travel route from 49 km to 43 km between Sonamarg in Kashmir to Drass in Ladakh while increasing vehicle speed from 30 km/hr to 70km/hr. The completion of the z-Morh Tunnel is expected to boost local economies by promoting trade and tourism, ultimately benefitting the overall development of the region, in addition to enhancing regional connectivity, safety and economic growth.
Located at an elevation of over 8,630 feet, the tunnel will enhance connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg while ensuring safe access to the strategically important Ladakh region. It has been built using advanced techniques to ensure safety and durability. The design facilitates efficient traffic flow and minimizes environmental impact. This route along National Highway-1 will improve defense logistics and promote economic growth and socio-cultural integration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. In fact, this tunnel will not only put Sonamarg on India's tourist map but also elevate it to a global tourist destination. The Z-Morh tunnel will boost tourism and benefit the local economy, including traders, hoteliers, transporters, laborers, and residents. It will create job opportunities for both educated youth and unskilled workers, providing them with a means of livelihood.
Z-Morh gets its name from the Z-shaped stretch of road that existed before the tunnel was built. This tunnel is a vital infrastructure project that will ensure all-weather access to the popular tourist destination of Sonamarg and will also facilitate year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh once the Zojilla tunnel is completed in 2028. Developed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, the Z-Morh tunnel spans 6.412 km and links Sonamarg with Kangan town in the central Kashmir district of Ganderbal. The local residents will no longer need to relocate during winter, and travel time to Kargil and Leh will be significantly reduced. In essence, the Z-Morh tunnel will serve as a reliable all-weather route, transforming travel between Srinagar and Sonamarg. Furthermore, once the Zojilla tunnel is finished, seamless connectivity between Srinagar and Leh will become a reality throughout the year. This development will truly be a blessing for the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
(Vivek Koul) .
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