Sonamarg’s hibernation ends

Sonamarg, Jan 12: The picturesque Gagangir area of Sonamarg is buzzing with activity as final preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to inaugurate the strategic Z-Morh Tunnel on Monday.

The 6.5-km tunnel, constructed at a staggering altitude of 8650 feet above sea level, stands ready as a testament to engineering excellence and strategic vision.

Massive hoardings, colourful banners, and festive decorations line the route from Gagangir to Sonamarg where the PM is scheduled to address a public gathering on Monday.

Senior civil and Police administration officials have established a temporary base in Sonamarg, overseeing security arrangements and logistical preparations for the high-profile visit.

The ceremony, scheduled for 11:45 am on Monday, will see the convergence of key political figures, including Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

The Rs 2700-crore project represents more than just a tunnel – it’s a comprehensive infrastructure package comprising the main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and carefully engineered approach roads.

This engineering marvel promises to revolutionise connectivity to the strategically vital Ladakh region by providing a safe, all-weather route that bypasses treacherous landslide and avalanche-prone areas.

In a significant gesture, the PM will meet the tunnel construction workers and engineers who braved challenging Himalayan conditions to complete this remarkable feat.

This interaction holds special significance as it marks PM Modi’s first visit to the region since the installation of an elected government in J&K last October.

The tunnel’s technological sophistication sets new standards for mountain infrastructure.

It features an advanced public address system, state-of-the-art electrical fire detection mechanisms, FM signal rebroadcasting capabilities, and innovative variable speed limit signs (SLVS) that adapt to real-time traffic conditions.

The Z-Morh Tunnel will work in synergy with the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, scheduled for completion in 2027.

Together, these projects will improve connectivity along NH-1, reducing the route length from 49 to 43 km and enabling vehicles to maintain speeds of up to 70 km per hour, compared to the current 30 km per hour.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasised the tunnel’s transformative potential, particularly for winter tourism.

“This project will revolutionise access to Sonamarg, making it a year-round destination and creating new opportunities for adventure sports and local employment,” he said.

Beyond tourism, the tunnel promises to strengthen defence logistics and foster deeper socio-cultural integration between J&K and Ladakh.

For locals, the project represents hope for sustained economic growth and improved quality of life, particularly during the harsh winter when traditional routes become impassable.