What is the Z-Morh project in Kashmir, where 7 were killed by militants?

Sub: Geo

Sec: Mapping

Z-Morh Tunnel: Key Details and Importance:

The Z-Morh tunnel is a critical infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir, recently in the spotlight due to a militant attack on October 20, 2024.

What is the Z-Morh Tunnel?

Location: It connects the Sonamarg tourist destination with Kangan town in Ganderbal district, central Kashmir.
Purpose: Provides all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg, situated on the Srinagar-Leh highway.
Length: 6.4 kilometers.
Name Origin: Derived from the Z-shaped road stretch near its construction site in Gagangir village, near Sonamarg.
Proposed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012.
The contract was initially awarded to Tunnelway Ltd., but later retendered and awarded to APCO Infratech.

Why Was the Z-Morh Tunnel Needed?

The tunnel is located at over 8,500 feet, a region prone to heavy snow and avalanches during the winter, leading to frequent road closures.
The road to Sonamarg remains closed for most of the winter due to adverse weather conditions, and the tunnel ensures year-round access.

Strategic Importance:

Part of a Larger Project: The Z-Morh tunnel is a key component of the Zojila tunnel project, designed to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.
Military Access: Crucial for India’s defense strategy, providing fast and reliable road access to Ladakh, particularly for military personnel stationed in sensitive areas like Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh, where Indian forces face both Pakistan and China.
Reduced Air Dependency: All-weather connectivity via the Z-Morh tunnel reduces the reliance on air maintenance for army supplies and troop movements, cutting costs and preserving aircraft life.

Connection to the Zojila Tunnel:

The Zojila tunnel, under construction at an altitude of around 12,000 feet, will connect Sonamarg in Kashmir to Drass in Ladakh. This strategic tunnel, expected to be completed by December 2026, combined with the Z-Morh tunnel, will provide year-round road connectivity for civilian and military use.