1 / 7Replacing hazardous routes with modern infrastructure | The Z-Morh Tunnel replaces a hazardous Z-shaped road stretch that was prone to frequent snow avalanches, causing seasonal closures of the Sonamarg road, particularly in winter. Situated at over 8,650 feet above sea level, the Z-Morh Tunnel bypasses this dangerous route, ensuring uninterrupted travel between Gagangeer and Sonamarg. Previously, this section of the road was inaccessible for most of the winter, limiting connectivity to the region. (Image: PTI)
2 / 7A strategic investment in connectivity | Named after the Z-shaped road that previously existed at the site, the tunnel forms part of a broader project aimed at improving regional connectivity. The ₹2,400 crore project includes the main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and necessary approach roads. The work on the tunnel began in 2012 under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and was later handed over to Tunnelway Ltd and eventually managed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).(Image: PTI)
3 / 7Tourism transformation: Sonamarg as a year-round destination | Why is this tunnel significant beyond just improved connectivity? First, it is expected to boost tourism, turning Sonamarg, also known as the “Meadow of Gold,” into a year-round destination. With all-weather access, businesses previously forced to close during the harsh winter months can now operate throughout the year, benefiting the local economy. The tunnel will reduce travel time between Gagangeer and Sonamarg to just 20-25 minutes, allowing tourists and residents to visit the area without seasonal disruptions. (Image: PTI)
4 / 7As PM Modi remarked, “The Z-Morh Tunnel will transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, creating new opportunities for winter tourism and local businesses.” Local traders, hoteliers, and tourism operators are optimistic about the new opportunities the tunnel will bring. Additionally, the tunnel opens up possibilities for adventure sports and other winter tourism activities that were previously difficult to access. (Image: PTI)
5 / 7Strengthening strategic defence connectivity | Strategically, the tunnel plays an even more important role. It is part of the larger Zojila Tunnel project, which will ultimately provide all-weather access to Ladakh. The Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to be completed by 2028, will connect Sonamarg to Drass in Ladakh, offering critical access to the strategically sensitive region. This region shares borders with Pakistan and China—countries with which India has tense relations. (Image: PTI)
6 / 7Currently, India’s military depends heavily on air transport to move supplies to remote areas of Ladakh. The Z-Morh and Zojila tunnels will reduce this dependency, making logistics more cost-effective and efficient, particularly during harsh weather conditions. The tunnel will improve the mobility of military personnel and equipment to the forward areas of Ladakh, enhancing defence preparedness and operational capabilities. (Image: PTI)
7 / 7Part of a larger infrastructure initiative | The Z-Morh Tunnel is also part of a larger initiative involving 31 tunnels being constructed across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, with a combined investment of ₹2,680 crore. This tunnel network is expected to further strengthen the region’s infrastructure, improving safety, trade, and transport. (Image: PTI)
