NationalPM Modi All Set to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel; Security Tightened

Date:

PM Modi All Set to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel; Security Tightened

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Monday to inaugurate the strategically significant Z-Morh (Sonamarg) tunnel in Ganderbal district. Extensive security measures have been implemented, with the Prime Minister’s security team taking full control of the event venue.

PM Modi is scheduled to arrive at the Sonamarg Tunnel around 11:45 AM on Monday for the inauguration and is expected to deliver a speech during the event.

According to a PTI report, security arrangements involve the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army. These agencies have been conducting widespread area domination exercises, searches, and patrols to ensure the event proceeds smoothly.

Sharpshooters have been stationed at key locations, while aerial and technical surveillance, including drone monitoring, is being conducted. Officials confirmed the area is under continuous watch.

“Security near the Z-Morh tunnel has been tightened with multi-layered arrangements, and the Prime Minister’s security team, including Special Protection Group (SPG) personnel, has secured the venue,” officials stated.

The SPG is a specialized agency responsible for safeguarding the Prime Minister of India and their immediate family members.

Authorities have also closed the Srinagar-Leh National Highway from Saturday to Monday, officially citing “icy road conditions due to inclement weather and maintenance work.” However, reports suggest the closure is primarily for the Prime Minister’s visit.

Z-Morh Tunnel Overview

Constructed at a cost of ₹2,400 crore on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, the 6.5-kilometre Z-Morh tunnel will provide year-round road access to the Ladakh region.

Work on the project began in May 2015 and concluded last year, with a soft launch in February 2024.

This tunnel is crucial for national defense in the Ladakh region, close to the China border, and strengthens connectivity between the Union Territory and the rest of India.

Key Features of the Z-Morh Tunnel

  • Located at an altitude of 8,650 feet, the tunnel spans 12 km in total, including a 6.4 km main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads.
  • It features a two-lane road tunnel with a parallel 7.5-metre-wide escape passage for emergencies.
  • The tunnel ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide and avalanche-prone zones, offering safer and uninterrupted access to Ladakh.
  • Previously, heavy snowfall made Sonamarg inaccessible in winter. The tunnel now plays a vital role in supporting tourism and regional economic growth.
  • Together with the under-construction Zojila Tunnel, Z-Morh will guarantee continuous civilian and military access to Baltal and Ladakh.
  • The tunnel is expected to turn Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, promoting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods.

An ‘Engineering Marvel’

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), overseeing the project, described the Z-Morh tunnel as an “engineering marvel” and a transformative development for the region.

In a post on X, NHIDCL highlighted that the Sonamarg Tunnel is more than just a connection between Gagangir and Sonamarg—it has the potential to revolutionize the region’s trade and tourism sectors.

Equipped with advanced technology for real-time updates and seamless connectivity, the tunnel enhances the user experience.

Once the Zojila Tunnel is completed by 2028, both tunnels will shorten the route from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speeds from 30 km/h to 70 km/h, ensuring smooth NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.

Share post:

Popular

More like this
Related

Govt Approves New Vaccine to Treat Major Cattle Disease

Biovet, a Bharat Biotech group company, has received approval...

Donald Trump Demands Treasury Department to Stop Pushing Pennies

Donald Trump has announced that he has directed the...

Rahul Gandhi Criticizes New UGC Draft Regulations; ‘RSS Hegemony’

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi,...

Sweden Faces the Worst Mass Shooting; 10 Dead

OREBRO, Sweden – A decade after fleeing the Islamic...