Z-Morh tunnel

Context-

The Z-Morh tunnel is set to become the first major milestone in the effort to build a strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh which is open all through the year, with the Prime Minister slated to inaugurate it.

About Z-Morh Tunnel:

• It is a 2-lane road tunnel between Gagangir and Sonamarg on the Srinagar-Leh Highway in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The name “Z-Morh” refers to the Z-shaped road section near the construction site.
• Why was the tunnel needed?
  • The area where the tunnel is being constructed sits at an altitude of over 8,500 ft and is prone to snow avalanches, which make the road to Sonamarg impassable during most parts of the winter.

• Features:
  • Length: 6.5 km
  • The tunnel is designed for the flow of 1,000 vehicles an hour at an approved maximum speed of 80 km per hour.
  • No toll tax will be collected from vehicles using the tunnel.
  • In addition to the main tunnel, it includes a parallel 6.426 km long Escape Tunnel and a 0.6 km long Ventilation Tunnel.
  • Intelligent Traffic Management System has been installed in Z-Morh Tunnel which will make it easier to control traffic. Along with this, traffic will be facilitated through the dedicated escape tunnel. 

• Strategic Importance:
  • In addition to providing all-weather access to Sonamarg, the tunnel is vital for ensuring year-round connectivity to Ladakh. This is particularly important for the movement of military personnel to border areas. 
  • Along with the 14.15 km Zojila Tunnel to its east, it aims to enhance the Indian military’s capabilities in Kashmir and Ladakh along both the Line of Control (LOC) to the north and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) further east.

CBL Practice Questions for Prelims

Consider the following statements regarding the Z-Morh Tunnel:

1. The Z-Morh Tunnel is a road tunnel being built at an altitude of 3,000 meters above sea level.
2. The tunnel is expected to reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by up to 2 hours.
3. The Z-Morh Tunnel will be equipped with modern safety features such as ventilation systems, emergency exits, and fire safety measures.
4. The tunnel will be operational year-round, bypassing the heavy snowfall areas along the existing road.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 and 3 only
• (b) 2, 3, and 4 only
• (c) 1, 3, and 4 only
• (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

CBL Mains Practice Question

“The Z-Morh Tunnel is a key infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity in the region of Jammu and Kashmir. In light of its strategic importance, evaluate the role of such infrastructure projects in fostering national security and regional development. Also, discuss the potential challenges faced in the construction and operationalization of such high-altitude tunnels.”

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