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Top-5 Tamarind Producing Countries in the World, Know the Names

Tamarind is a tropical fruit known for its sour and tangy flavor, widely used in cooking, beverages and traditional medicine. It grows in warn climates and is an important ingredient in many cuisines. Some countries produce more tamarind than others, and these nations are known for their large-scale production. This article explores the top-5 five tamarind-producing countries in the world.

An Overview of Tamarind

Tamarind is a tropical tree native to Africa and found in Asia. It produces pod-like fruits with sweet and tangy pulp, used in cooking, medicine and even as a metal polish. The tree’s wood is used for woodworking and tamarind seed oil can be extracted from its seeds. The tender young leaves are used in South India and Filipino dishes. Due to its many uses, tamarind is grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Top-5 Tamarind Producing Countries in the World

Tamarind is a tropical fruit widely used in cooking, especially for its tangy flavor. Some countries produce it in large quantities, making them leaders in the global tamarind market. Here are the names of top- 5 tamarind producing countries:

  • India
  • Thailand
  • Indonesia
  • Mexico
  • Nigeria

World’s Largest Tamarind Producer, India

India is the world’s biggest producer of tamarind, producing around 300,000 tons annually. The country is known for its rich and diverse use of tamarind in many dishes like chutneys, curries and sweets. India exports tamarind to various regions including Europe, Arab countries, and the United States, making it a significant part of their agricultural exports.

Thailand

Thailand ranks as the second-largest producer of tamarind, with an estimated 150,000 tons produced each year. The country is famous for its premium-quality tamarind paste and concentrates. Thai tamarind is widely used in sauces, soups and other traditional dishes, and is exported globally for its dishes flavor.

Indonesia

Indonesia produces approximately 90,000 tons of tamarind every year. While most of Indonesia’s tamarind is consumed within the country, its production is steadily increasing to meet global demand. Indonesian tamarind is used in local recipes and is growing in popularity in international markets.

Mexico

Mexico produces an estimated 50,000 tons of tamarind annually. The country exports tamarind to North and Central America, where it is used in various beverages and candies. Mexican tamarind is known for its tangy taste, which is a key ingredient in many popular seeds and drinks.

Nigeria

Nigeria produces about 40,000 tons of tamarind each year. Though most of the production is consumed locally, Nigeria has great potential to expand its exports. With investments in processing infrastructure, Nigeria could increase its tamarind production and reach more international markets.

Understanding the 2025 Southern California Winter Wildfires

In January 2025, Southern California experienced a severe wildfire outbreak that devastated large portions of Los Angeles, including celebrity homes and neighborhoods like Hollywood Hills. Wildfires such as the Palisades fire, Eaton fire, Sunset, Hurst, and Lidia fires led to significant destruction, killing 10 people, displacing 130,000 individuals, and delaying the Oscars nominations. Despite winter traditionally being an off-season for wildfires, these fires are particularly intense due to three main contributing factors: wet weather followed by dry conditions, Santa Ana winds, and climate change.

Key Points

Palisades Fire & Other Blazes: Wildfires burned through Los Angeles, including celebrity homes.

Evacuations: Over 130,000 people forced to evacuate; 10 lives lost.

Oscar Delays: Nominations delayed by two days due to the fire’s impact.

Reasons for Intensity of Fires

Wet Weather Followed by Dry Conditions

  • Unusually wet winters (2022-2023) led to abundant vegetation growth.
  • The current winter (2024) is extremely dry, causing all the vegetation to dry up and become a fire hazard.
  • NASA and climate scientists report the driest winter in Southern California on record since 1944, contributing to the fire’s severity.

Santa Ana Winds

  • A high-pressure system builds in the Great Basin, causing winds to blow towards the coast.
  • These winds, which are stronger and drier than usual, spread the fire rapidly by fanning the flames.
  • Winds blow at high speed and high temperature after passing through mountain passes.

Climate Change

  • Climate change has lengthened the wildfire season, shifting peak fire periods from summer to earlier months.
  • Warmer temperatures and early spring snow melts lead to longer dry seasons, stressing vegetation and making it more susceptible to fires.
  • Higher global temperatures exacerbate the severity and frequency of wildfires.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Understanding the 2025 Southern California Winter Wildfires
Palisades Fire & Other Blazes Fires in Los Angeles, burning homes and causing fatalities, with celebrities affected.
Evacuations Over 130,000 people evacuated, with 10 deaths and widespread destruction.
Wet Weather Followed by Dry Conditions Wet winters in 2022-2023 caused vegetation growth, followed by a dry 2024 winter, creating a fire hazard.
Santa Ana Winds Unusually strong winds from the Great Basin spread flames rapidly across Southern California.
Climate Change Warmer temperatures and early spring snow melts have lengthened wildfire seasons and intensified their impact.

BMCRI to Set Up South India’s First Infectious Disease Research Lab

Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) has been selected by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to establish South India’s first Infectious Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (IRDL). This initiative aims to enhance the diagnostic and research capabilities for infectious diseases in the region. The laboratory will focus on diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites, facilitating faster diagnosis and improving healthcare outcomes. This project is part of a larger national effort to build specialized labs in medical colleges across India.

Key Developments

Infectious Disease Research and Diagnostics

  • The IRDL will provide diagnostic services and research on infectious diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
  • It aims to reduce the need to send samples to other states, ensuring quicker and more accurate results within Bengaluru.

Focus Areas

  • Bacteriology: Identifying bacterial pathogens and studying antibiotic resistance patterns.
  • Mycology: Researching fungal infections.
  • Parasitology: Studying parasitic organisms responsible for tropical diseases

Government Support

  • The project is part of a Union Government initiative to establish specialized laboratories in medical colleges nationwide.
  • Capacity building will focus on advanced diagnostics and treatment, improving healthcare delivery.

Significance

  • This project is expected to revolutionize the accuracy of diagnostics and healthcare in the region.
  • It will also contribute to strengthening the research infrastructure in medical institutions.

Additional Developments by Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil

  • Moniz Cath Lab Suite
  • Located at the Trauma and Emergency Care Centre (TECC) in Victoria Hospital, it is equipped for advanced coronary angiography, angioplasty, stroke management, and other cardiac procedures.
  • Includes a dedicated ward with eight beds and pre/post-care units.
  • New Auditoriums
  • A new auditorium at TECC, named after Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, and another at Minto Eye Hospital for academic and cultural activities.
  • The auditorium at Minto Eye Hospital was funded by the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? BMCRI to Set Up South India’s First Infectious Disease Research Lab
Establishment BMCRI chosen by ICMR for South India’s first IRDL
Focus Areas of IRDL Bacteriology, Mycology, Parasitology (Infectious disease research)
Impact on Diagnostics Faster diagnosis, reducing the need to send samples out of state
Government Support Part of a Union Government initiative to build specialized laboratories across India
Additional Facilities Moniz Cath Lab Suite (coronary angiography, stroke management) and two new auditoriums
Future Impact
Enhanced diagnostic accuracy and improved healthcare delivery in Bengaluru and surrounding regions

Top-10 Most Powerful Passports in the World 2025, Check India’s Position

A passport is an important document that allows people to travel to different countries. Some passports are stronger than others, allowing holders to visit more countries without needing a visa. In 2025, the strongest passports give people more freedom to travel. Let’s took a look at the top passports based on visa-free access.

Most Powerful Passport in the World 2025

As of 2025, Singapore has the most powerful passport in the world, offering visa-free access to 195 out of 227 destinations. This impressive ranking highlights Singapore’s strong diplomatic ties and global influence, making international travel easy for its citizens. Singaporean passport holders enjoy unmatched freedom to explore different cultures and opportunities worldwide, making it one of the best passports for global mobility. This level of access reflects Singapore’s important role on the global stage.

Top-10 Most Powerful Passports in the World by January 2025

According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Singapore, with the visa-free access to 195 countries out of 227 destinations, followed by Japan, Finland, France, Germany and Italy.

Here is the list of top-10 most powerful passports in the world by January 2025:

Rank Passport Visa-Free Score
1. Singapore 195
2. Japan 193
3. Finland, France, Germany, Italy, South Korean, Spain 192
4. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden 191
5. Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom 190
6. Australia, Greece 189
7. Canada, Malta, Poland 188
8. Czechia, Hungary 187
9. Estonia, Hungary 186
10. Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates 185

India’s Position in Henley’s Passport Index 2025

In 2025, India ranks 83rd on the Henley Passport Index, offering visa-free access to 58 destinations. While this shows improvement in global mobility, it still lags behind many countries. Indian passport holders can visit popular places like Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand without a visa. India’s growing diplomatic ties, economic strength, and global partnerships are gradually enhancing the value of its passport, despite challenges with visa restrictions in some regions.

Languages Spoken in Uttar Pradesh, Check the List

Uttar Pradesh, a large and culturally diverse state in India, is home to a variety of languages. These languages are spoken across different districts and reflect the region’s rich history and cultural diversity. From Hindi, Urdu and Awadhi to Braj, Bhojpuri and more, each district has its own district language or dialect, making the state a fascinating blend of linguistic traditions.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India with over 241 million people, making it the most populous state in India and the world’s most populous subdivision. It covers an area of 243,286 square kilometers, about 7.3% of India’s total area. UP is bordered by Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The capital is Lucknow, with Prayagraj as the judicial capital. Uttar Pradesh has 18 divisions and 75 districts.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts, along with one temporary district. For better administration, the state is divided into 18 divisions. These divisions help in organizing the state’s governance and ensuring effective management of its regions.

Official Language of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has two official languages: Hindi and Urdu. Hindi, written in Devanagari script, was made the official language by the Uttar Pradesh Official Language Act of 1951. Urdu became the second official language through an amendment to the Act in 1989.

Other Popular Languages Across Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is home to several languages that are spoken across different regions. The main languages in the state are listed below.

Bhojpuri Language in Eastern Uttar Pradesh

Bhojpuri is predominately spoken in the eastern Uttar Pradesh. Key areas where Bhojpuri is widely used include:

  • Ballia
  • Deoria
  • Mirzapur
  • Jaunpur
  • Varanasi
  • Azamgarh
  • Gorakhpur
  • Siddharthnagar

This language has a strong cultural presence in the eastern part of the state.

Awadhi Language in Central Uttar Pradesh

Awadhi is a major language spoken in the central regions of Uttar Pradesh. This language can be heard in districts such as:

  • Lakhimpur Kheri
  • Shravasti
  • Prayagraj
  • Gonda
  • Sitapur
  • Lucknow
  • Unnao
  • Ayodhya
  • Raebareli
  • Sultanpur

Awadhi is known for its rich literary and folk traditions.

Kannauji Language in the Western and Northern Regions

Kannauji is mainly spoken in the western and northern parts of Uttar Pradesh. Some of the districts where Kannauji is spoken include:

  • Kanpur
  • Pilibhit
  • Hardoi
  • Kasganj
  • Etawah
  • Kannauj
  • Auraiya

This language holds a significant place in the cultural history of the state.

Bundeli Language in Southern Uttar Pradesh

In the southern regions of Uttar Pradesh, Bundeli is the primary language. Some of the districts where Bundeli is commonly spoken are:

  • Jalaun
  • Banda
  • Chitrakoot
  • Mahoba
  • Hamirpur
  • Jhansi
  • Lalitpur

Bundeli is famous for its traditional songs and folklore.

Braj Language in the Braj Region

Braj is mainly spoken in the western parts of Uttar Pradesh, especially in areas associated with Lord Krishna. Some of the districts where Braj is spoken are:

  • Mathura
  • Agra
  • Hathras
  • Mainpuri
  • Firozabad
  • Aligarh

Braj is an ancient language with strong cultural and religious significance.

Khari Boli Language in Western Uttar Pradesh

Khari Boli, a dialect of Hindi, is spoken widely in the western regions of Uttar Pradesh. Key areas where Khari Boli is used include:

  • Saharanpur
  • Bijnor
  • Bareilly
  • Badaun
  • Sambhal
  • Muzaffarnagar
  • Gautam Buddh Nagar
  • Meerut
  • Baghpat
  • Bareilly

Khari Boli is considered the base of modern Hindi and is widely understood across the state.

E-Way Bills Surge in December, Second-Highest in Two Years

In December 2024, e-way bills reached their second-highest level in two years, indicating a strong recovery in India’s economy. Data shows that a total of 8.8 crore e-way bills were generated during the month, marking a significant 9.3% increase from the previous month and a 7.4% rise compared to the same period last year. This growth reflects an uptrend in economic activity, boosted by increased transportation and trade movements.

Key Takeaways

E-Way Bills Growth: December 2024 saw 8.8 crore e-way bills, second only to the 9 crore mark achieved in December 2022.

Month-on-Month & Year-on-Year Comparison: The number of bills rose by 9.3% compared to November 2024 and by 7.4% when compared to December 2023.

Indicators of Economic Recovery: The rise in e-way bills suggests a strong economic rebound, aided by enhanced business and industrial activities.

Seasonal Trends: E-way bills usually peak around festive months, and this December’s surge aligns with higher consumption during the holiday season, driven by increased sales and transportation.

Historical Context

Looking back, the highest-ever e-way bill generation occurred in December 2022, with a total of 9 crore bills, driven by strong demand and economic recovery post-pandemic. The consistency in numbers over two years underscores the resilience of the Indian economy and its evolving trade patterns.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
E-way bills in December 2024 112 million e-way bills generated, 17.6% increase YoY, second-highest in two years. Surge expected to boost GST collections for January 2025.
Economic Impact Surge indicates higher manufacturing activity, signaling economic growth.
GST and e-way bills Increased e-way bill generation likely to result in a positive GST collection in January 2025.
PMI vs E-way Bills PMI for December dropped to 56.4, reflecting slower manufacturing growth compared to e-way bill data.

Global Water Cycle Disruption in 2024 Caused Wayanad Landslides

The 2024 Global Water Monitor Report highlights significant disruptions in the global water cycle due to climate change, which led to devastating water-related disasters worldwide. These events caused over 8,700 deaths, displaced 40 million people, and resulted in economic losses exceeding $550 billion. The report emphasizes how extreme weather events, such as landslides, floods, and droughts, are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming, affecting ecosystems, livelihoods, and infrastructure. Among the major events highlighted, the Wayanad landslides in India stood out as a particularly destructive disaster.

Key Points from the 2024 Report

Global Water Cycle Disruption

  • Climate change significantly altered the global water cycle in 2024.
  • The disruption contributed to water-related disasters like landslides, floods, droughts, and tropical cyclones.
  • Over 8,700 deaths, 40 million displaced, and $550 billion in economic losses.

Wayanad Landslides (India)

  • Triggered by 409mm of rainfall in 24 hours in July 2024.
  • 375 lives lost and 10,000 displaced.
  • Economic losses of $140 million.
  • Highlighted as a key example of the deadly impacts of climate-induced rainfall events.

Other Major Disasters

  • Flash floods and river floods in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and East Africa.
  • Severe flooding in Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) and heavy flooding in the Amazon Basin (Brazil).
  • Tropical cyclones, landslides, and droughts attributed to rising global temperatures.

Climate Change Impact

  • Rising sea surface temperatures contributed to prolonged droughts in Southern Africa and the Amazon.
  • Extreme rainfall events occurred 52% more frequently in 2024 compared to previous decades.
  • Record-dry months increased by 38%, intensifying water scarcity.

Temperature and Precipitation Trends

  • 2024 recorded the highest-ever average global land temperatures.
  • A significant rise in extreme rainfall and extreme dry months.
  • 34 countries experienced record-high annual maximum temperatures.
  • The frequency of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and flash floods, increased.

Declining Water Storage

  • Global reductions in lake and reservoir water storage for the fifth consecutive year.
  • Declines were particularly significant in South America, while increases were seen in certain regions of Africa.

Forecast for 2025

  • Potential for more extreme weather events, including flash floods, droughts, intense storms, and heatwaves.
  • Regions at risk: Northern South America, Southern Africa, Central Asia, North America, and Western Australia.
  • Increased flooding risks in Sahel, Horn of Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Global Water Cycle Disruption in 2024 Caused Wayanad Landslides
Water-related Disasters 8,700 deaths, 40 million displaced, $550 billion in economic losses due to extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and landslides.
Wayanad Landslides 409mm rainfall in 24 hours in July 2024, 375 deaths, 10,000 displaced, $140 million in damages.
Other Major Disasters Flash floods in Afghanistan, Pakistan, East Africa; floods in Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil); Amazon drought and bushfires.
Climate Change Impact Sea surface temperatures, extreme rainfall, and rising temperatures intensifying water-related disasters.
Temperature & Precipitation Highest-ever average land temperatures, 52% increase in extreme rainfall events, 38% more record-dry months.
Water Storage Decline Continued decline in lake and reservoir storage for five consecutive years; reduction in South America, increases in parts of Africa.
2025 Forecast
Increased risks of flash floods, droughts, storms, and heatwaves, especially in Northern South America, Southern Africa, and Central Asia.

Rupee Hits Record Low of ₹86 Against US Dollar

On January 10, 2025, the Indian rupee depreciated to an all-time low of ₹86 against the US dollar, closing 14 paise lower than the previous day. This marks the first instance the rupee has breached the ₹86 threshold, reflecting significant economic challenges.

Key Factors Influencing the Depreciation

Strengthening US Dollar: The US dollar’s appreciation, driven by expectations of restrictive trade measures from the incoming US administration, increased demand for the greenback, exerting downward pressure on the rupee.

Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) Outflows: Sustained outflows of foreign funds from Indian markets contributed to the rupee’s decline. On January 9, FIIs offloaded ₹7,170.87 crore in the capital markets, intensifying the currency’s depreciation.

Rising Crude Oil Prices: An increase in global crude oil prices added to the economic strain, as higher oil costs can lead to a wider trade deficit and increased import expenses, further weakening the rupee.

Market Reactions and Outlook

The rupee’s decline has been accompanied by increased volatility in the foreign exchange market. Analysts suggest that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may adopt a more flexible approach to managing the exchange rate, allowing for greater intraday fluctuations while preventing large movements.

Despite RBI interventions to curb the rupee’s losses, the currency has continued to depreciate, closing at ₹85.9650 on January 10, marking its tenth consecutive week of decline.

Implications for the Indian Economy

The rupee’s depreciation has several implications:

Inflationary Pressures: A weaker rupee can lead to higher import costs, contributing to inflation.

Capital Flows: Sustained FII outflows may affect market liquidity and investor sentiment.

Monetary Policy: The RBI may need to adjust its monetary policy stance to address the challenges posed by currency volatility.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Rupee hits record low of ₹86 against US dollar – On January 10, 2025, the Indian rupee depreciated to ₹86 against the US dollar, closing 14 paise lower.
Factors for Rupee Depreciation – Stronger US dollar due to global market conditions and expectations of US policy tightening.
– Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) outflows of ₹7,170.87 crore from Indian markets.
– Rising crude oil prices contributing to India’s wider trade deficit and increased import expenses.
Impact on Indian Economy – Higher import costs and inflationary pressure due to a weaker rupee.
– Sustained FII outflows may affect market liquidity and investor sentiment.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Actions – Possible RBI interventions to stabilize the rupee and manage currency volatility.
Market Outlook – Rupee faces continued pressure, marking its tenth consecutive week of decline as of January 10, 2025.
Current Exchange Rate – The rupee closed at ₹85.9650 on January 10, 2025.

India to Invest ₹50,000 Crore in National Waterways Over 5 Years

In a significant move to enhance the country’s inland water transport infrastructure, the Indian government has announced an investment of ₹50,000 crore over the next five years. This initiative aims to develop and improve national waterways, promoting sustainable and efficient transportation.

Investment Breakdown and Focus Areas

New Waterways and Green Shipping: Approximately 50% of the total investment is earmarked for the development of new national waterways and the promotion of green shipping initiatives. This includes the introduction of 1,000 green vessels to bolster eco-friendly transportation.

Expansion of Water Metro Projects: Building on the success of Kochi’s Water Metro project, the government plans to extend similar projects to 15 cities, including Guwahati, enhancing urban water transport connectivity.

Infrastructure Development: The plan includes constructing six floating steel jetties on the river Godavari (National Waterway 4) at locations such as Gandipochamma Temple, Pochavaram, and Perantapalli village in Andhra Pradesh, facilitating better access and trade opportunities.

Strategic Importance and Historical Context

The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC), established in 2023, plays a pivotal role in this initiative, fostering collaboration between central and state governments to maximize the economic potential of inland water bodies.

Historically, India’s inland waterways have been underutilized compared to other nations. In 2016, the National Waterways Act was enacted, declaring 111 waterways as national assets to boost cargo and passenger movement. Despite these efforts, only a fraction of trade has been conducted via waterways, highlighting the need for renewed focus and investment.

Future Prospects and Economic Impact

The government’s commitment to investing ₹50,000 crore is expected to revolutionize India’s inland water transport sector. By developing 20 of the 26 viable national waterways, the initiative aims to increase the share of water-based trade, reduce logistics costs, and promote environmentally friendly transportation.

Additionally, the Riverine Community Development Scheme seeks to improve the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities by developing infrastructure, promoting trade and tourism, and enhancing the riverine ecosystem.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
₹50,000 crore investment for national waterways – ₹50,000 crore to be invested over 5 years.
– 50% of investment for developing new national waterways and green shipping.
– 1,000 green vessels to be introduced.
– Expansion of Water Metro projects in 15 cities, including Kochi.
– Infrastructure development like floating steel jetties.
Government’s initiative to enhance inland water transport – National Waterways Act, 2016 declared 111 waterways as national assets.
– Focus on eco-friendly transportation and reducing logistics costs.
– The project includes social and economic development of riverine communities.
Static Points – Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) established in 2023.
– Key cities for Water Metro projects: Kochi, Guwahati.
– Rivers like Godavari (National Waterway 4) targeted for floating steel jetties.

 

PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Boosting Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity

The Z-Morh tunnel, set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13, 2024, marks a significant step in creating a year-round strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel is critical for ensuring continuous access to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, which was previously inaccessible during the winter months due to snow and avalanches. Built under the Thajiwas Glacier, it bypasses landslide-prone areas and includes an intelligent traffic management system to enhance safety and control vehicle flow. The tunnel is also expected to boost winter tourism in Kashmir and support military logistics to Ladakh.

Key Highlights

Details

  • Tunnel Inauguration: PM Modi is set to inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2024.
  • Strategic Importance: Facilitates a year-round access route to Ladakh, crucial for security and tourism.
  • Tourism Boost: Opens up Sonamarg for winter tourism, which was previously inaccessible due to harsh winter conditions.
  • Location: The tunnel is located between Gagangir and Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, under the Thajiwas Glacier.
  • Cost and Size: Built at ₹2,680 crore, the 6.5 km tunnel is a vital part of the Kashmir-Ladakh corridor.
  • Security Enhancements: Additional security measures have been implemented across Kashmir, especially ahead of the inauguration.
  • Impact on Local Economy: Will increase footfall and business for hoteliers in Sonamarg during the winter.
  • Future Projects: The Z-Morh tunnel will link to the Zojila tunnel, which, when completed, will be Asia’s longest tunnel.

Tunnel Features

  • Construction: Bypasses landslide-prone areas with an intelligent traffic management system.
  • Dimensions: The main tunnel is 10.8 meters wide, with an escape tunnel of 7.5 meters, and ventilation tunnels of 8.3 meters.
  • Purpose: Enhances access to Ladakh, ensures safe winter access to Sonamarg, and reduces travel risks.

Zojila Tunnel Connection

  • Zojila Tunnel: Will be Asia’s longest tunnel, improving travel between Ganderbal (Kashmir) and Kargil (Ladakh).
  • Travel Time: Reduces travel time from 3 hours to just 20 minutes.
  • Future Development: Built at ₹6,800 crore, the Zojila tunnel will provide reliable access to Ladakh during winter, which is currently cut off for months due to snow.
  • Military Importance: Critical for the movement of goods and security forces to Ladakh.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Boosting Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity
Inauguration Date January 13, 2024
Location Ganderbal district, Kashmir, under Thajiwas Glacier
Tunnel Length 6.5 km
Cost ₹2,680 crore
Strategic Importance Year-round access to Ladakh and enhanced security logistics
Tourism Impact Boosts winter tourism, especially in Sonamarg
Security Enhanced security measures for PM’s visit
Traffic Management Intelligent traffic system for vehicle flow
Zojila Tunnel Will link to Z-Morh tunnel, reducing travel time to Ladakh
Zojila Tunnel Length 13.14 km, expected to be Asia’s longest
Economic Benefits Increase in business for hoteliers, boost to winter tourism

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