Unlocking Winter Wonderland: Z-Morh Tunnel to Transform Sonmarg into a Premier Winter Sports Destination

Omar emphasized that the opening of the Z Morh tunnel will pave the way for Sonamarg's growth as a premier winter sports hub, enhancing access and boosting tourism in the region.

On a significant Sunday, Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kashmir for the inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel along the Srinagar-Leh highway in Sonamarg. Abdullah emphasized that the local populace had been eagerly anticipating the completion of this vital infrastructure project, which is expected to transform the region.

As preparations intensified for the Prime Minister's visit, paramilitary forces enhanced security measures along the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway, ensuring a safe environment for the event. In his remarks at Gulmarg, Abdullah highlighted the potential of the Z-Morh tunnel in establishing Sonamarg as a prominent winter sports destination. “Just as we have developed Gulmarg for winter sports, our aim is to similarly enhance Sonamarg within the next five years,” he stated confidently.

The inauguration of the 6.5 km Z-Morh tunnel at Gagangir, located a mere 10 km from the popular tourist destination of Sonamarg, marks a significant milestone. This infrastructure will not only make Sonamarg accessible during the winter months but also ensure uninterrupted connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg throughout the year. Furthermore, the Zojila tunnel, which spans 14.15 km and is under construction in proximity to Z-Morh, is poised to make the strategically important Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh highway an all-weather route.

Responding to media queries, Chief Minister Abdullah expressed his approval of the Prime Minister's visit, noting, “It is an excellent development. We are excited to welcome the PM, and the local community has been looking forward to the tunnel's completion, especially those who frequently travel to Kargil or Leh.”

Constructed at a staggering cost of ₹2,700 crore, the Z-Morh tunnel's construction journey spanned over a decade. Equipped with a sophisticated Intelligent Traffic Management System, the tunnel comprises the main tunnel, an escape tunnel, and a ventilation tunnel. Although finished last October, the inauguration was postponed due to a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of six workers’ lives at the tunnel construction site.

As security tightened across the region, including Sonamarg, extensive checks were conducted at various points. A robust security cordon has been established, with access to the venue limited until the official inauguration. The Prime Minister is also anticipated to address a rally at Gagangir, situated near the new tunnel.

Abdullah remarked on how the new tunnel would simplify travel for residents, stating, “We are now looking forward to the completion of the Zojila tunnel, which is expected to reduce the travel distance between Srinagar and Leh.” Work on the Zojila tunnel commenced in 2020 and is projected to take two more years before completion, ultimately becoming the country’s longest road tunnel and linking Ganderbal district in Kashmir with Drass district in Ladakh.

Additionally, Abdullah defended the security protocols related to the upcoming inauguration of the direct train service connecting Srinagar and Delhi, urging authorities to reconsider requiring passengers to change trains at Katra. He expressed concerns that such a requirement would negate the investment made in establishing the direct line, emphasizing, “To ensure passenger safety, checks can be implemented, but there shouldn't be a mandatory train change.”

During a leisurely skiing session at Gulmarg, Omar Abdullah promoted the region as a premier tourist destination, encouraging visitors to discover its beauty and hospitality. “I urge everyone to experience Kashmir firsthand and return with cherished memories,” he stated, while acknowledging his desire for more snowfall to enhance the skiing experience.

Abdullah also mentioned the anticipated opening of a new convention center in Gulmarg, which he hopes will attract not only national leaders but potentially international figures as well. “Our goal is to position this beautiful location as a global destination for discussions and events,” he indicated, illustrating a vision for the future of Gulmarg.

Looking ahead, Gulmarg is poised to host the Kashmir edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, set to take place starting February 22. Abdullah expressed pride in Gulmarg's recognition as the best winter sports destination in India and conveyed excitement over its role in the fifth edition of the games. “We are prepared to host the winter games again and are optimistic for more snowfall before then,” he concluded, signaling excitement for the season ahead.