look news india
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the Z-turn tunnel located on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway on January 13. This 6.5 kilometer long tunnel is being considered a big step towards connecting the Ladakh region by road throughout the year. Built at a cost of approximately Rs 2,400 crore, this tunnel is extremely important not only from the strategic point of view but also for the economic and tourism development of the region.
Mention of terrorist attack in Gagangir area
This is the same Z-turn tunnel where a terrorist attack took place on 20 October 2022. This tunnel is located in Gagangir area of Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Seven people, including a local doctor and two laborers from Bihar, lost their lives in this attack.
- Two terrorists were involved in this attack on the tunnel construction site.
Important for strategic and defense needs
The Z-Morh tunnel is being considered extremely important for defense needs and connecting Ladakh with other parts of the country.
- Officials associated with the project said that the Prime Minister will be present at the inauguration site and will dedicate it to the nation.
- In case of bad weather, this inauguration can be done through virtual medium.
‘Game changer’ for tourism
Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah described the project as a “game changer” for expanding tourism. He wrote on social media:
“Jammu and Kashmir, especially Central Kashmir, is waiting for the inauguration of a vital infrastructure. “This project will prove to be a revolutionary step in expanding winter tourism.”
Tourism and year-round transportation facilities in Sonamarg
- Srinagar-Sonmarg road remained closed in winter due to heavy snowfall in Gand area of Kangan.
- With the commissioning of the Z-Morh tunnel, this road will now remain open throughout the year, which will give a new dimension to tourism in Sonamarg.
- Work on the project began in May 2015 and is scheduled to be completed in 2022.
riskier route option
- This tunnel will not only reduce travel time but will also provide a safe alternative to snowfall and avalanche-prone routes.
- Besides, work is also going on on Zojila Tunnel to keep Srinagar-Leh road operational throughout the year.
Winter tourism will get a boost
The opening of the Z-Morh Tunnel will not only expand tourism in the Kashmir Valley but will also accelerate the economic and social development of the region. This project will emerge as a new attraction for tourists and will also improve the lives of the local people.