Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, the region is witnessing heightened security measures. The Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the much-awaited Z-Morh tunnel in Ganderbal district, and preparations are in full swing to ensure the event runs smoothly and securely.
Special Protection Group (SPG) Takes Control
The Special Protection Group (SPG) has taken charge of the innermost security ring for PM Modi’s visit. With the heightened security in place, Jammu & Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces have set up additional checkpoints across central Kashmir. Surveillance has been intensified with the installation of CCTV cameras and the establishment of frisking points. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will remain in effect until January 13, ensuring tight security for the high-profile event.
Intensified Security in Sonamarg
In the area surrounding Sonamarg, where the inauguration will take place, security has been beefed up with coordinated efforts from the police, paramilitary forces, and the Army. These measures include area domination exercises, thorough searches, and regular patrols to ensure the safety of the attendees and the smooth execution of the event.
Z-Morh Tunnel: A Landmark Infrastructure Project
The Z-Morh tunnel, a 6.5-kilometre-long road tunnel, is part of the larger Zojila project. This tunnel will provide year-round connectivity between Ganderbal’s Gagangir area and Sonamarg, which has been isolated during winter due to heavy snowfall. The tunnel will enhance both civilian and military mobility in the region and is expected to boost tourism in Sonamarg, particularly during the winter months.
Built at a cost of Rs 2,680 crore, the Z-Morh tunnel is equipped with modern features such as an escape tunnel, ventilation systems, and culverts capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The project is anticipated to significantly improve connectivity to Ladakh.
Administrative Measures and Key Dignitaries
The Jammu & Kashmir government has issued directives to ensure uninterrupted administrative functions during the event. Fourteen Administrative Secretaries will be stationed at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar from January 10 to 13 for coordination. The inauguration will be attended by prominent dignitaries, including Union Minister for Surface Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Traffic and Weather Conditions
In preparation for the visit, traffic on the Kargil-Srinagar highway, including the Zoji La Pass, will remain suspended from January 11 to January 14 due to icy road conditions and adverse weather. Maintenance work will be carried out during this period, and traffic is expected to resume on January 14, weather permitting. This suspension is also interpreted as part of the security arrangements for PM Modi’s visit.
With security tightened and meticulous planning in place, the inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel is set to be a landmark event in Kashmir’s infrastructural development.