Z-Morh Tunnel

Recently, Seven people were killed in Jammu and Kashmir when suspected militants targeted the workers of infrastructure company APCO Infratech, which is constructing the Z-Morh tunnel on the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway. 

Location of Z-Morh Tunnel

• The Z-Morh tunnel is a 6.4 km tunnel located near Gagangir village, connecting Sonamarg health resort with Kangan town in Ganderbal district, central Kashmir.
• It is situated on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh highway at an altitude of over 8,500 feet.
• It is named after the Z-shaped road stretch at its construction site.

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Significance of Z-Morh Tunnel

• Provides all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg, a tourist destination that previously remained inaccessible during winters due to heavy snowfall.
• Part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, crucial for all-weather access between Srinagar and Ladakh, supporting both tourism and military logistics.
• Strategic for the Indian Army, ensuring faster road access to border regions like Dras, Kargil, and Leh.
• Reduces reliance on air transport for maintaining forward Army positions, improving supply efficiency and reducing costs.
• Vital for enhancing military mobility against both Pakistan (Siachen Glacier and Turtuk in PoK) and China (Eastern Ladakh), especially after recent border tensions.

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