The recent tragic incident in Jammu and Kashmir, where seven workers were killed by suspected militants, has drawn attention to the Z-Morh tunnel project. This attack marks a concerning shift in militant tactics, targeting vital infrastructure projects that are crucial for regional connectivity and development. About the Z-Morh tunnel’s significance is essential in the context of both civilian infrastructure and national security.
What is the Z-Morh Tunnel?
The Z-Morh tunnel is a 6.4-kilometre passageway designed to connect the popular Sonamarg health resort with Kangan town in the Ganderbal district of central Kashmir. Located at a high altitude of over 8,500 feet, the tunnel is strategically important for providing all-weather access to Sonamarg, especially during the harsh winter months when heavy snowfall often blocks roads. The tunnel derives its name from the Z-shaped road stretch in the area, denoting its geographical features.
The Need for the Tunnel
The construction of the Z-Morh tunnel addresses a critical need for reliable access to Sonamarg, a region that is prone to severe weather conditions. Historically, the road to Sonamarg has remained closed for much of winter due to snow avalanches, impacting tourism and local economies. By ensuring year-round accessibility, the tunnel aims to bolster tourism and facilitate better movement of goods and services, ultimately enhancing the region’s economic resilience.
Timeline and Development
The Z-Morh tunnel project was initially conceived by the Border Roads Organisation in 2012, with the construction contract initially awarded to Tunnelway Ltd. However, the project later transitioned to the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which retendered the work. APCO Infratech secured the contract and has been executing the project through a special purpose vehicle. Although the tunnel was expected to be completed by August 2023, delays have pushed the timeline further. A soft-opening occurred in February 2023, but the official inauguration remains pending due to the Model Code of Conduct associated with upcoming elections.
Strategic Importance of the Z-Morh Tunnel
The Z-Morh tunnel is not merely a civilian infrastructure project; it holds strategic importance for India’s defence capabilities. It is part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, which aims to ensure all-weather connectivity from Srinagar to Ladakh. This connectivity is vital for military logistics, allowing quicker access for troops and supplies to border areas, particularly in light of heightened tensions with both Pakistan and China. The construction of the Zojila tunnel, which will connect Sonamarg to Drass in Ladakh, is currently underway and expected to be completed by December 2026. The Z-Morh tunnel’s completion is essential for facilitating this broader connectivity, enabling safer and more efficient transportation routes for the Indian Armed Forces. This is particularly crucial given the increased deployment of Indian troops in regions like Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh, where tensions with Chinese forces have escalated since 2020.
Impact on Military Logistics
The provision of all-weather road connectivity through the Z-Morh tunnel will reduce the Indian Army’s reliance on air transport for logistical support in forward areas. Currently, the Indian Air Force plays a vital role in airlifting troops and supplies, which is both costly and logistically challenging. By establishing reliable ground routes, the military can transport personnel and equipment more efficiently, thereby reducing operational costs and extending the lifespan of aircraft. Furthermore, the improved connectivity will enhance the rapid response capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, ensuring that they can mobilise quickly in response to any threats along the borders. This is particularly important in the context of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
