PM inaugurates Sonamarg (Z-Morh) Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir
₹2,700 crore-plus project gives all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh.
Summary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel, earlier called the Z-Morh tunnel, in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on 13 January 2025. The Sonamarg Tunnel project is around 12 km long and was built at a cost of over ₹2,700 crore; it comprises a 6.4 km main tunnel, an egress tunnel and approach roads. Situated at over 8,650 feet above sea level, it gives all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, bypassing landslide- and avalanche-prone routes. Along with the Zojila Tunnel, due by 2028, it will cut the route from 49 km to 43 km and raise vehicle speed from 30 km/h to 70 km/h on NH-1 between the Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.
Key facts
- Date
- 13 January 2025
- Earlier name
- Z-Morh tunnel
- District
- Ganderbal, J&K
- Project length
- About 12 km; main tunnel 6.4 km
- Cost
- Over ₹2,700 crore
- Altitude
- Over 8,650 ft
- With Zojila Tunnel (by 2028)
- Route 49 km to 43 km; speed 30 to 70 km/h on NH-1
Practice MCQs 3 questions
The Sonamarg Tunnel, inaugurated by PM Modi on 13 January 2025, was earlier known as:
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Z-Morh tunnel
The Hindu and Indian Express: the tunnel was earlier called the Z-Morh tunnel; Zojila is a separate tunnel due by 2028.
In which district of Jammu and Kashmir is the Sonamarg Tunnel located?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Ganderbal
The Hindu and Indian Express both place the tunnel in Ganderbal district.
Consider the following statements about the Sonamarg Tunnel project: 1. It was built at a cost of over ₹2,700 crore. 2. Its main tunnel is 6.4 km long. 3. It is situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level. Which of the statements given above are correct?
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Correct answer: D — 1, 2 and 3
PIB (PMO): all three statements are correct.