Z-Morh Tunnel Project in Kashmir

Source: This post on Z-Morh Tunnel Project in Kashmir has been created based on the article “What is the Z-Morh project in Kashmir, where 7 were killed by militants?” published in Indian express on 22nd October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, seven workers from APCO Infratech, involved in constructing the Z-Morh tunnel, were killed by suspected militants. This marks the first militant attack targeting a key infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir. In the past, such projects had not been targeted by militants.

About the Z-Morh Tunnel

1. Location: It is located near Gagangir village, Kashmir. It is at an altitude of over 8,500 feet.

2. The Z-Morh tunnel spans 6.4 kilometers and connects the popular Sonamarg health resort with Kangan town in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

3. Purpose: It provides all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg, a key tourist destination on the Srinagar-Leh highway. The name comes from the Z-shaped road stretch where the tunnel is situated.

4. Need of the tunnel: The area is prone to heavy snow avalanches in winter, leading to the closure of the road to Sonamarg for most of the season. The tunnel enables year-round access to the region.

5. Timeline: It was conceived in 2012 by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). After initial delays and retendering, the contract was awarded to APCO Infratech. The project was executed through APCO-Shri Amarnathji Tunnel Private Limited. The tunnel’s soft opening occurred in February 2024.

6. Strategic Importance of the Z-Morh Tunnel:

i) Connection to Ladakh: Part of the broader Zojila tunnel project, which aims to establish all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.

ii) Military Relevance: The tunnel is critical for quick military access to border regions of Ladakh, including Drass and Kargil. It supports Indian defense deployments against Pakistan in Siachen and Chinese forces in Eastern Ladakh.

iii) Air Support Reduction: With improved road access, the Indian Army’s reliance on air maintenance through aircraft for troops and supplies will decrease, reducing operational costs and extending the life of aircraft.

Broader Impact

i) Tourism: Beyond military use, the tunnel facilitates uninterrupted tourism to Sonamarg.

ii) Zojila Tunnel Project: Z-Morh is crucial for the larger Zojila tunnel project, expected to be completed by December 2026, which will provide all-weather access from the Kashmir valley to Ladakh.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence