Jammu and Kashmir to Witness Major Milestone as PM Modi Opens Sonamarg Tunnel Enhancing Travel and Tourism Opportunities in the Himalayas

Published on January 13, 2025

PM Modi will inaugurate the Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, a transformative project enhancing all-weather connectivity and boosting tourism in Ganderbal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Monday to unveil the Sonamarg Tunnel, a key infrastructure project located in Ganderbal district.

The 6.5-kilometer-long tunnel, known as the Z-Morh Tunnel, is a significant development for all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg. Highlighting its impact, Jammu and Kashmir’s former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that the tunnel will transform Sonamarg into a thriving winter sports destination, comparable to the renowned Gulmarg ski resort.

Event Details and Dignitaries in Attendance

The inauguration ceremony will take place at 11:45 AM, with PM Modi accompanied by Omar Abdullah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister is expected to address a public gathering and meet with workers who contributed to the tunnel’s construction.

Z-Morh Tunnel: A Boost for Sonamarg’s Growth

Omar Abdullah emphasized the tunnel’s pivotal role in developing Sonamarg as a premier winter sports hub. Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹2,700 crore, the project includes the 6.4-kilometer main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and access roads, extending the total length to approximately 12 kilometers.

Situated at an altitude exceeding 8,650 feet, the tunnel ensures uninterrupted connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing hazardous routes prone to landslides and avalanches. This enhanced access is expected to bolster strategic and economic ties to the Ladakh region.

PM Modi’s Anticipation for Sonamarg Visit

Ahead of the event, PM Modi expressed excitement about his visit to the region. Responding to visuals of the tunnel shared by Omar Abdullah on X, the Prime Minister wrote, “Looking forward to my trip to Sonamarg for the tunnel’s inauguration. This project will bring immense benefits to tourism and the local economy. The aerial views are breathtaking!”

Unlocking Sonamarg’s Potential

Nestled amid the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the Sonamarg Tunnel is poised to unlock the region’s trade and tourism opportunities, paving the way for year-round economic activity and transforming Sonamarg into a sought-after destination.