Z-Morh tunnel to unlock opportunities for winter tourism, adventure sports in J&K's Sonamarg

Srinagar: The Z-Morh tunnel, a landmark infrastructure project scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13, is poised to unlock new opportunities for winter tourism and adventure sports at Sonamarg hill station in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

The tunnel, which will ensure all-weather connectivity to the picturesque region, has sparked new hopes for winter sports development, particularly with the establishment of a state-of-the-art ice-skating rink by the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA).

The SDA has constructed the ice-skating rink as part of its broader efforts to enhance Sonamarg’s appeal as a winter sports hub. This project is expected to invigorate the local tourism industry and create new opportunities for young people in the area.

The ice-skating rink, already drawing thousands of visitors, has quickly become a focal point for local youth and tourists. Enthusiasts from across the country, including students and sports fans, have flocked to the rink, marking the beginning of a new era for Sonamarg as a winter sports destination.

“This initiative is not just about attracting tourists; it’s also about creating opportunities for local youth,” said an official from the SDA. “The rink offers a platform for them to engage with winter sports professionally, whether as athletes, coaches, or in the hospitality sector.”

Rouf Ahmad, a resident of Ganderbal said he always dreamt of trying ice skating and thanks to the efforts of the SDA, he got an opportunity to learn and enjoy this beautiful winter sport.

“Sonamarg had much to offer in the winter season. Ice skating will not only enhance the experience for tourists but also provide youth with new opportunities in the sports and hospitality sectors,” Ahmad said.

Sonamarg on Srinagar-Leh national highway, remains abuzz with a huge flow of local as well as non-local tourists in the summers. The health resort used to remain closed to the public as well as traffic movement every year during winter due to heavy snowfall.

With the construction and completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel near Gagangir along the National Highway, the government has made an effort to keep Sonamarg open during winters and use one tube of the tunnel for emergency passage.

The opening of the Z-Morh Tunnel, along with the ice-skating rink, is expected to provide a year-round tourist draw, which can stimulate local economy and offer a fresh appeal to visitors looking for winter adventure activities.