Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir on Monday to inaugurate the crucial Z-Morh (Sonamarg) tunnel in Ganderbal district, with stringent security measures in place.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army were mobilized for the event, ensuring smooth operations through extensive surveillance, area patrols, and the deployment of sharpshooters.
The Prime Minister’s security team, the Special Protection Group (SPG), took control of the venue, securing the location.
The Srinagar-Leh national highway was closed from Saturday to Monday due to icy conditions, although it was widely believed that this was also done to accommodate the PM’s visit.
Built at a cost of ₹2,400 crore, the 6.5-km Z-Morh tunnel aims to enhance year-round accessibility to Ladakh, bypassing hazardous avalanche-prone routes. The tunnel is crucial for national defense, linking Ladakh to the rest of the country, especially given its proximity to the China border.
The tunnel features a 6.4-km main tunnel, an escape passage, and approach roads. At an altitude of 8,650 feet, it ensures safe and uninterrupted access between Srinagar, Sonamarg, and Leh, even during harsh winter conditions.
The tunnel will also help in tourism, making Sonamarg a year-round destination and boosting local livelihoods. The Z-Morh tunnel, together with the upcoming Zojila tunnel, will reduce travel distance and time, providing better connectivity for both civilians and military personnel.
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) called the Z-Morh tunnel an “engineering marvel” that will unlock the region’s trade and tourism potential.
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