The Z-Morh Tunnel, opening January 13, ensures year-round access to Sonamarg, transforming it into a premier winter sports and tourism destination.
Z-Morh Tunnel Set to Transform Sonamarg into a Premier Winter Sports Destination
The eagerly awaited Z-Morh Tunnel, a significant infrastructure milestone, is set to open on January 13, bringing new opportunities for winter tourism and sports at the picturesque Sonamarg. This landmark project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to reshape the region’s accessibility and tourism potential.
The 6.5-kilometer-long tunnel will ensure year-round connectivity to Sonamarg, a popular destination nestled in Jammu and Kashmir. Known for its summer charm, Sonamarg has traditionally been cut off during the harsh winter months due to heavy snowfall. The Z-Morh Tunnel changes that, enabling uninterrupted access along the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, even in extreme weather.
In anticipation of this groundbreaking connectivity, the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) has unveiled a cutting-edge ice-skating rink, marking the region’s foray into winter sports infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility has already gained popularity, attracting thousands of young enthusiasts and students from various states. The rink is poised to become a bustling hub for both locals and visitors, further cementing Sonamarg’s status as an emerging winter sports destination.
Sonamarg, often bustling with tourists during the summer, is now preparing to offer a range of winter activities. Heavy snowfall, which once closed the region to public access and traffic, will no longer hinder tourism. By utilizing one tube of the Z-Morh Tunnel for emergency purposes during winters, authorities aim to establish Sonamarg as an all-weather destination.
With the completion of this transformative project, Sonamarg is set to host a variety of winter sports, including ice-skating and potentially skiing, alongside other recreational activities. Officials hope this initiative will not only attract more tourists but also provide local youth with valuable opportunities in sports and hospitality.
As Jammu and Kashmir positions itself as a premier destination for winter tourism, Sonamarg’s newfound accessibility and infrastructure enhancements are expected to play a pivotal role. The Z-Morh Tunnel symbolizes a bold step forward in integrating the region into the country’s year-round tourism map, promising to make Sonamarg a vibrant winter wonderland.
