Investment in transport infrastructure is vital to economic development and prosperity.
China is one of the leading countries when it comes to building new roads and bridges, pouring billions of pounds into various infrastructure schemes.
India also understands the importance of creating better connectivity within the country.
This month, authorities opened the new four-mile Z-Morh tunnel, that connects Jammu and Kashmir in the north of the country.
The tunnel derives its name from the Z-shaped stretch of road it replaces and stands as a testament to engineering brilliance and regional development.
Costing £220million, it is a significant milestone in the development of the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, enhancing access to Ladakh while boosting tourism, economic growth and national security.
The tunnel is a two-lane, bi-directional road structure with a width of 32 feet.
It is designed to handle up to 1,000 vehicles per hour at a maximum speed of 49.7mph.
The tunnel provides a reliable and year-round passage for locals and tourists alike, reducing travel time from Gagangir to Sonamarg to just 30 minutes.
The previous road was prone to avalanches and would remain blocked for several months each year.
Located at an altitude of over 8,650 feet, the Z-Morh Tunnel was built using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method.
Construction started in 2020 and involved the participation of a workforce numbering 1,500 people.
