Bhubaneswar: The 6.5-km Z-Morh Tunnel in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district has emerged as a major milestone in India’s infrastructure development, with Odisha-cadre IAS officer Dr Krishan Kumar playing an important role in the execution of the ambitious project.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the strategic tunnel, which connects Gagangir with Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir. The two-lane tunnel is expected to significantly improve all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg and facilitate smoother movement towards Leh.
The project was executed under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). Dr Krishan Kumar, who was serving on central deputation and took charge as Managing Director of NHIDCL in 2022, played a key role in accelerating the construction work.
The project was initially started in May 2015 but witnessed delays during its execution. After assuming charge at NHIDCL, Dr Krishan Kumar focused on expediting the project through close monitoring, coordination and regular supervision, helping the construction regain momentum.
The project was implemented with a focus on completing the work within the stipulated timeline under the overall guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.
Built at a cost of more than Rs 2,700 crore, the Z-Morh Tunnel is located at an altitude of around 8,650 feet above sea level. The tunnel also includes a 7.5-metre-wide emergency escape passage and modern safety features.
The tunnel is particularly significant because it bypasses landslide- and avalanche-prone stretches of the route. It is expected to provide safer and more reliable connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg throughout the year, while improving access towards Leh.
The project is also expected to boost tourism and economic activity in the region by improving road connectivity to Sonamarg, especially during the challenging winter months.
For Odisha, the successful completion of the strategically important infrastructure project is also a matter of pride, with Dr Krishan Kumar’s contribution being recognised as an important part of the project’s execution.
