Z-Morh Tunnel: A Strategic Corridor
The Z-Morh Tunnel is a significant infrastructure project aimed at establishing a strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh, ensuring year-round connectivity.
Strategic Importance
- Located in Ganderbal district, it keeps Sonamarg accessible throughout the year, countering winter closures due to snowfall and avalanches.
Security and Economic Impact
- Local hoteliers express optimism for winter tourism expansion due to dependable road access.
- The tunnel, bypassing avalanche-prone areas, features an intelligent traffic management system, boosting adventure tourism.
- Constructed at a cost of ₹2,680 crore, the tunnel is a 6.5-km long, two-lane infrastructure.
Zojila Tunnel Connectivity
- Z-Morh leads to the Zojila Tunnel, Asia's longest tunnel under construction, costing ₹6,800 crore.
- The 13.14-km long tunnel will significantly reduce travel time between Ganderbal and Kargil from three hours to 20 minutes.
- Connectivity is crucial, with the Zojila Pass currently closing during winters, cutting Ladakh off for months.