PM Modi To Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel In J&K On 13 January, Strengthening Military Connectivity On Srinagar-Leh Highway

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on 13 January to inaugurate the highly anticipated Z-Morh tunnel, a significant infrastructure project on the Srinagar-Leh highway. 

This visit comes three months after a deadly attack at the construction site in Ganderbal district, where seven workers, including a doctor, lost their lives.

The Special Protection Group (SPG) is expected to arrive in Srinagar by Thursday (9 January) to assess security measures along the route and at the inauguration venue. 

In preparation for the visit, the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) police and local administration have already begun making arrangements, including site inspections by security officials. 

The Prime Minister is likely to address a small gathering during his visit.

This marks PM Modi’s first visit to the region following the formation of the National Conference-led government in October 2024. 

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the Z-Morh tunnel’s potential to boost winter tourism in central Kashmir.

The Z-Morh tunnel, part of the broader Zojila project, is crucial for both civilian and military operations. 

The 6.5-kilometer tunnel, which will connect Ganderbal’s Gagangir area to Sonamarg, will significantly ease travel, especially during winter months when heavy snow can isolate the region. 

The project is vital not only for local tourism but also for the logistical movement of armed forces to Ladakh.

Construction of the Z-Morh tunnel began in 2018, and it is one of 31 tunnels being built under the region’s extensive infrastructure development plan, which includes 20 tunnels in J&K and 11 in Ladakh.