13-Jan-2025

Z- Morh Tunnel

Science & Technology

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir to inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel in the Ganderbal district. This infrastructure project is expected to enhance road connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, benefiting both tourism and the Indian military.

Z-Morh Tunnel: Key Facts

  • Location: A 6.4 km long tunnel in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, providing all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg along the Srinagar-Leh highway.
  • Purpose: Ensures year-round access to Sonamarg, a major tourist destination, and improves connectivity to Ladakh.
  • Construction
    • Initially planned by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012.
    • Later re-tendered by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to a private company.
  • Strategic Importance
    • Located in a snow avalanche-prone area, ensuring road access during harsh winters.
    • Part of the larger Zojila Tunnel project, critical for all-weather connectivity to Ladakh.
    • Facilitates quick movement of military personnel and supplies to border areas near Pakistan and Eastern Ladakh for defense preparedness.
  • Significance
    • Boosts regional tourism and economic activities.
    • Strengthens infrastructure for Indian defense forces in strategically sensitive areas.

Border Roads Organisation (BRO): Established in 1960, BRO is responsible for developing and maintaining road infrastructure in India's border areas, focusing on connectivity in challenging terrains for strategic and developmental purposes.

National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL): Founded in 2014, NHIDCL is a government entity tasked with constructing and managing highways and infrastructure projects in hilly, border, and remote regions to enhance connectivity and support national development.