State PCS - JAMMU & KASHMIR (JKAS)

• 29 Jul 2025

Operation Mahadev

Why in News? 

Operation Mahadev, carried out by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police, eliminated the alleged mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack, along with two other terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, in an encounter in the forests near Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir.  

• One of the other terrorists killed in the operation was allegedly involved in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack. 

Key Points 

• About Pahalgam Terror Attack: The Pahalgam terror attack took place on 22nd April 2025, in Baisaran Meadows in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists ambushed a group of tourists, resulting in the deaths of 28 people.  
  • The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.  
    • The US officially designated TRF as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group. 
  • India carried out Operation Sindoor in self-defense following the attack, in accordance with Article 51 of the Right to Self-Defense under the UN Charter. 

Key Facts About the Sonamarg Tunnel 

• Official Name: Z-Morh Tunnel 
• Length: Approximately 12 km, including the main 6.4 km tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads. 
• Strategic Importance: Enhances all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, bypassing Z-shaped, avalanche-prone areas. 
• Travel Efficiency: Reduces travel time between Gagangir and Sonamarg from several hours to approximately 15 minutes. 
  • Along with the Zojila Tunnel (completion by 2028) it will reduce the route length from 49-43 km and boost vehicle speed from 30-70 km/hr, ensuring seamless NH-1 connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.  
  • Zojila Tunnel is a 14.2 km tunnel under construction to enhance connectivity between Sonamarg and Leh.