The Sonamarg Tunnelis a significant infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir. Here are some interesting facts about this tunnel:
- The Sonamarg Tunnel is around 12 km long.
- The Sonamarg Tunnel is also known as the Z-Morh tunnel.
- It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 January 2025.
- The Z-Morh tunnel, located in the picturesque Ganderbal district.
- It has been constructed at a cost of over Rs 2,700 crore.
- It comprises the Sonamarg main tunnel of 6.4 km length, an egress tunnel and approach roads.
- This Z-Morh tunnel is part of the larger NH1 Srinagar-Leh Highway network.
- The tunnel will enhance all weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg enroute to Leh.
- The Z-Morh Tunnel is engineered to accommodate up to 1,000 vehicles per hour allowing a maximum speed limit of 80km/hr.
- Due to this tunnel, it will now be possible to bypass landslide and avalanche routes and ensure safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically critical Ladak region.
- Sonamarg Tunnel opens up possibilities of tourism and can make Sonamarg into a year-round destination, that will boost winter tourism, adventure sports and local livelihoods.
- Situated 8,652 feet above sea level, the tunnel provides all-weather access.
- Developed with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), the tunnel is known for its efficiency in tunnelling through challenging geological conditions.
14. Its construction began in May 2015 and was completed in 2024.
15. More than 14 tunnels like Sonamarg are being constructed in J&K region, making Jammu and Kashmir one of the most connected regions in the country.
16. Some of the world’s highest tunnels and highest rail-road bridges are now being constructed in Jammu and Kashmir.