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PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Rs 2,700 crore Z-Morh tunnel in J&K
- Business Standard |
- Economics (Indian Economy) |
- 2025-01-13
- INFRASTRUCTURE
- Tunnel
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 6.5-kilometer Sonamarg tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, enhancing connectivity to Ladakh. This project, along with upcoming tunnels, aims to improve Jammu and Kashmir's infrastructure and strategic access.
Inauguration of Sonamarg Tunnel
Prime Minister inaugurated the 6.5-kilometer-long Sonamarg tunnel, a significant infrastructure development on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway.
Key Features and Importance
- Strategic Location: The tunnel is part of a larger 12-kilometer project aimed at providing all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.
- Cost and Construction: The project cost is Rs 2,700 crore, and it was taken over by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) after delays.
- Safety Features: It includes a bi-directional tunnel with a parallel escape tunnel, a creeper lane for heavy vehicles, and several approach roads and bridges.
Economic and Strategic Impact
- The tunnel ensures uninterrupted connectivity, benefiting the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It's strategically important for military access and supply chains.
Upcoming Infrastructure Projects
- Zoji La Tunnel: Expected to be completed by 2028, it will reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by 3.5 hours and is projected to save over Rs 5000 crore in costs.
- Rail Connectivity: The Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a Rs 40,000 crore project, is near completion and will see Vande Bharat Express services once the Katra-Reasi section is approved.
- Ropeway Projects: 54 projects estimated at over Rs 15,000 crore are proposed to enhance connectivity in the region.
Broader Developmental Initiatives
- Over Rs 42,000 crore worth of road connectivity projects are ongoing in Jammu and Kashmir, including numerous tunnels and highway projects.
- Gulmarg is being developed as a winter sports capital, hosting the fifth edition of Khelo India Winter Games.