Sonmarg Tunnel: Another milestone in PM Modi’s developmental initiatives

By Mohammad Amin Mir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, marking a significant step towards ensuring all-weather access to Ladakh via the Srinagar-Leh National Highway.

Situated at an altitude of 8,652 feet above sea level, this 6.5-kilometer two-lane tunnel connects Gagangir, approximately 68 km east of Srinagar, to Sonmarg, a key tourist destination. The tunnel derives its name from the Z-shaped winding road it bypasses, offering a safer alternative to the avalanche-prone stretch that often remained blocked during winter. This infrastructure reduces the travel time between Gagangir and Sonmarg from nearly two hours to just 15 minutes.

Constructed under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and initiated in May 2015, the Z-Morh tunnel is a critical component of the Zoji La tunnel project, which aims to provide seamless connectivity between Ladakh and Srinagar. The 14-kilometer Zoji La Tunnel, currently under construction, will eliminate the need to navigate the hazardous 11,575-foot pass, one of the most challenging in the world. Expected to be completed in two years, it will further bolster connectivity and strategic capabilities.

The immediate operational significance of the Z-Morh tunnel lies in its potential to boost tourism and provide convenience for residents of Sonmarg traveling to Srinagar and Jammu for their daily needs.

Upon completion of the Zoji La Tunnel, the true strategic value of these bypasses will become evident. Year-round connectivity will enhance India’s defense logistics and posture in the Ladakh and Kargil sectors, critical for countering threats along the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Similar developments are underway on the Manali-Leh highway, including the Atal Tunnel under Rohtang Pass and planned tunnels beneath Baralacha La, Tangang La, and Lachung La. Additionally, the construction of a tunnel under Shinku La has received environmental clearance, opening a third axis to Leh through the Zanskar Valley.

These infrastructure projects are part of the Central Government’s expansive India-China Border Roads initiative to strengthen strategic and logistical infrastructure in northern and northeastern regions. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), along with NHAI, other government departments, and private entities, is playing a key role in their execution.

During winters, troop sustenance and medical evacuations in the northern sector often rely on air transport. With these tunnels, year-round road access will significantly reduce reaction time, improve troop mobility, and support the movement of heavy equipment, benefiting both the military and civilian population.

Once completed, these tunnels will provide Ladakh and Kargil with all-weather connectivity through three routes — one from Srinagar and two from Manali — delivering a strategic and socio-economic boost to the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s numerous developmental projects in Jammu & Kashmir have brought substantial improvements, and the inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel is another milestone in this journey. As anticipated, further developments are expected, including new projects set to be unveiled on Republic Day.

The author is a Patwari at the Tehsil Office, Qazigund.