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SSC Foundation Online Live Batch (With Hard Copy)
01 December, 2024
Z Morh Tunnel
Sun 05 Jan, 2025
Context
- The Z Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, completed six months ago, is awaiting clearance from the Union Government for public opening. This tunnel is a key infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity in the region, particularly during harsh winters.
About Z Morh Tunnel
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Srinagar-Leh Highway, Ganderbal district, Jammu & Kashmir |
| Altitude | 8,500 feet |
| Length | 6.5 kilometers |
| Purpose | All-weather connectivity to Sonamarg |
| Construction Company | APCO Amarnathji Tunnelway Pvt Ltd |
| Completion Date | Achieved Commercial Operation Date (COD) on July 24, 2024 |
| Construction Model | Build-Operate-Transfer (Annuity) |
| Maintenance | 15 years post-completion |
| Origin | Initially conceived by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012, later handed over to NHIDCL |
Geographical Significance
- Strategic Importance: The Z Morh Tunnel is part of the strategic Srinagar-Leh highway, crucial for connecting the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.
- Economic Impact: All-weather connectivity will boost tourism in Sonamarg, which is currently inaccessible during winters.
- Connectivity and Security: Enhanced connectivity supports regional development and improves accessibility for military logistics in border areas.
Economic Aspects
- Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Model: The project was implemented on an annuity basis, where the private sector is responsible for construction and maintenance while receiving periodic payments from the government.
- Tourism Development: Improved connectivity will significantly increase tourist inflow to Sonamarg, promoting local businesses and creating employment opportunities.
Major Tunnels in India
| Tunnel Name | State | Length |
| Atal Tunnel | Himachal Pradesh | 9.02 km |
| Zojila Tunnel | Jammu & Kashmir | 14.2 km |
| Chenani-Nashri Tunnel | Jammu & Kashmir | 9.2 km |
| Rohtang Tunnel | Himachal Pradesh | 8.8 km |
| Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel | Jammu & Kashmir | 8.5 km |
| Sela Tunnel | Arunachal Pradesh | 12 km (under construction) |
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Models in Infrastructure Projects
| PPP Model | Description |
| Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) | Private sector builds and operates the project for a fixed period before transferring it back to the government. |
| Build-Operate-Lease-Transfer (BOLT) | Private sector builds, operates, and leases the project, transferring ownership after the lease period. |
| Design-Build-Finance-Operate (DBFO) | Private sector designs, builds, and finances the project while operating it for an agreed period. |
| Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) | Government and private entity share construction cost; annuities paid to private entities during operations. |
| Operate-Maintain-Transfer (OMT) | Private sector operates and maintains the project, transferring ownership back to the government post-term. |