The Z-Morh Tunnel connects more than just regions—it links the legacy of Kashmir’s resilience with its aspirations for progress and prosperity.
By Tauheed Ahmad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir‘s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in a landmark event. Spanning 6.5 kilometers, the tunnel is set to provide year-round access to Sonamarg, boosting connectivity, tourism, and strategic infrastructure in the region.
The bi-directional ₹4,200-crore tunnel – along with the ring road project still being executed in a phase-wise manner is seen as a “game-changer” allowing for up to 1,000 vehicles an hour at 80 km per hour. The travel time between Srinagar and Sonamarg may even reduce up to 2.5 hours. In the end, Prime Minister Modi addressed the gathering and told the laborers that he would have never been there without their labor and sacrifices and said, “Despite the obstacles, our commitment did not deter.
The unyielding will and determination of the laborers in overcoming every hurdle have resulted in this accomplishment.” He further condoled the death of seven workers who lost their lives to a terror attack during the process.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the tunnel has the potential to transform things. “The Z-Morh Tunnel is not just an engineering marvel; it is a lifeline for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It will facilitate the movement of goods, enhance tourism, and, more importantly, strengthen our defenses by ensuring uninterrupted access to strategic areas,” he said.
The Z-Morh Tunnel links the Gagangir area with Sonamarg, an important point on the Srinagar-Leh highway that had remained inaccessible for months because of heavy snowfall and avalanches. The enhanced connectivity is expected to enhance the tourism industry in Sonamarg, making the destination accessible throughout the year. The picturesque town of Sonamarg, popularly known as the “Meadow of Gold,” attracts both domestic and international tourists. Activities like trekking, camping, and fishing are also conducted there.
Shahnawaz Khan, a local tourism entrepreneur, noted, “The Z-Morh Tunnel is a game changer for Sonamarg. This will attract more tourists and help our businesses thrive. We have long waited for this day, and now we can finally offer our services year-round.
It will unlock avenues for the local economy by creating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. The hotel industry, restaurants, and adventure tourism operators expect to increase footfalls and revenue. The farmers of the region will be able to transport perishable produce, mainly during winter, through the tunnel.
Mohammad Shafi, a local from Sonamarg, shared his heartfelt excitement, saying, “We are overjoyed to welcome PM Modi. This tunnel is a game changer for us. It will make life easier for the locals, including us pony wallahs, palki wallahs, and of course, the tourists. For so long, we’ve waited for better connectivity, and now, with this positive step, Sonamarg will finally thrive throughout the year. We can’t wait to see the change it brings for everyone here.”
The Z-Morh Tunnel was started in 2015 but failed to progress due to financial and logistical issues. After being initially handled by Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS), the project stalled due to funding issues. NHIDCL, however, retendered the project in 2019 and gave the tender to APCO Infratech.
Security issues were also not without its troubles. Terror attack in Gagangeer in October 2024 killed seven laborers. Work, however, did not come to a halt.
“Construction process faced several hurdles, including terrorist attacks and difficult weather conditions. But thanks to the determination of the workers and the support from the local administration, we were able to complete this project,” officials said.
Prime Minister Modi paid homage to the fallen workers, saying, “The Z-Morh Tunnel is a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of our workers, who have faced challenges that most cannot even imagine. Their hard work and commitment are what have made this tunnel possible.
The engineering of the Z-Morh Tunnel itself is marvelous, incorporating cutting-edge technology for safety and durability. It is provided with ventilation systems, emergency exits, and an advanced monitoring system for safe and smooth operation. There has been heavy employment of local labor and material for the construction of this project, thus developing the economy of the region.
During the construction phase, the project followed very stringent environmental guidelines to actually minimize its footprint on the ecosystem of the region. All steps were taken towards the preservation of biodiversity in this fragile valley and ensured that during construction the project did not hit any local wildlife’s natural habitat, not to mention pollute the pristine Sind River running through the valley.
Environmental sustainability was a core principle throughout the project. We adopted eco-friendly practices and followed all environmental norms,” said an official.
Addressing the function, Prime Minister Modi underlined the importance of the tunnel within a larger vision for the region. “The Z-Morh Tunnel is not just about today; it’s about the future of Jammu and Kashmir. This is a part of a larger vision to make the region one of the most connected and economically vibrant parts of India,” he said.
The Prime Minister outlined plans for ₹42,000 crore in road projects, including the Zojila Tunnel, the Chenab Railway Bridge, and the Ring Road, to integrate remote areas and strengthen the region’s connectivity. The Zojila Tunnel, in particular, will connect Srinagar to Leh, further enhancing strategic and economic links.
It is a symbol of the new Jammu and Kashmir, where infrastructure development leads to more opportunities, stronger defenses, and better livelihoods for its people,” he concluded.
The completed tunnel is also seen as a step toward realizing the ambitious goal set by the government in promoting Ladakh and Kashmir as a global tourist destination. It provides improved connectivity with the region and thereby brings in investment opportunities for infrastructure, hospitality, and adventure tourism.
The completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel is a testament to the workers who braved the tough conditions and security threats. The tragic loss of seven workers in the 2024 attack reminded everyone of the sacrifices involved. “Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten,” said Modi, calling for a moment of silence during the ceremony.
This tunnel’s success story is about resilience and cooperation, reflecting the determination of engineers, workers, and policymakers. Local communities also played a crucial role in supporting the project, as they provided manpower and logistical assistance.
The Z-Morh Tunnel is more than a piece of infrastructure; it is a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, echoing the sentiments of many present at the ceremony.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of Jammu and Kashmir was quick to remind the Centre that the latter had assured the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, 2025, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation for the Z-Morh Tunnel.
The Chief Minister expressed optimism regarding the fulfillment of this commitment since Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had been reassuring them time and again. Abdullah remembered that when Modi came into office for his third term, he promised three things: the removal of the distance between Delhi and J&K, holding assembly elections, and reinstating the statehood of the region. Two of these promises have already been met,” Abdullah noted, referring to the conclusion of assembly polls and the reduction of ‘Delhi ki Doori.’
“But the third one, the re-establishment of statehood remains unmet. People, media included, would often ask for it. I am still hoping that this promise will be materialized soon,” Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister began his address by paying tribute to seven workers, including a doctor, who were killed in a terrorist attack near the Sonamarg Tunnel in October 2024. “For over 35 years, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have made significant sacrifices for the progress of this nation, and I belong to a party that has contributed immensely to these sacrifices,” he said, paying tribute to the victims.
Abdullah further said that the visit of the Prime Minister to Sonamarg is significant as his visit itself sends a message to those who oppose the development of the region.
“Your presence here sends a clear message to those who wish to halt Jammu and Kashmir’s progress. Such forces will not succeed and will be defeated,” he said. He saluted Modi’s efforts for restoring peace along the borders, which remotely would directly benefit areas like Machil, Gurez, Karnah, and Keran, whose development and tourism have seen improvement.
In response to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s call for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reassured the audience that he stands by his promises. “You must trust that this is Modi, and I always fulfill my commitments. There is a proper time for everything, and when the time is right, the right actions will be taken,” Modi said, without directly addressing the specific issue of statehood.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha discussed the drift of Jammu and Kashmir’s focus from terrorism to tourism. According to him, the Z-Morh Tunnel is a transformative project that ensures all-weather connectivity. It would further attract more tourists while enhancing logistical support for the army. “The Z-Morh Tunnel will be a game-changer for this region. It will benefit the economy and security,” LG Sinha added. He concluded by praising the consistent efforts of PM Modi to turn the aspirations of the people into reality, stating, “One by one, PM Modi has made your dreams come true.”
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