Rishikesh-Karnprayag Railway Line Project Achieves 41 Tunnel Breakthroughs, Enhancing Char Dham Connectivity
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag new railway line, spanning 125 kilometers, has reached a significant milestone with the completion of Escape Tunnel 1. Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the project’s implementing body, announced that this breakthrough marks the 41st tunnel completed in the project. The breakthrough was achieved on Friday, following the completion of the full 10.847-kilometer length of the tunnel, which is the second-longest in the project.
Importance of the Tunnel Breakthrough
This achievement is particularly noteworthy due to the challenging geological conditions along the Himalayan alignment. The route traverses complex rock formations characterized by tectonization, multi-folding, and extensive faulting, which have resulted in areas of intense rock crushing. Officials noted that these geological challenges have led to the formation of thick mylonite zones near the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT). With the completion of this tunnel, the project is progressing towards its final target, with five more breakthroughs anticipated within the next year.
Overview of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Line
The new rail line has been sanctioned to enhance rail connectivity for the Chardham pilgrimage circuit, passing through several districts in Uttarakhand, including Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli. It aims to connect key religious and tourist destinations, facilitating safer and more efficient travel for the large number of pilgrims and tourists visiting the Char Dhams. The existing road network faces significant limitations, making rail connectivity a more reliable and environmentally friendly option.
The project includes 16 main-line tunnels covering 104 kilometers and 12 escape tunnels extending about 98 kilometers. As of July 2026, 101 kilometers of main-line tunneling and over 95 kilometers of escape tunnels have been completed. To expedite construction, eight adits have been established at various tunnel locations, providing additional excavation points. Additionally, 19 major bridges are required for the rail line, with eight already completed and work on the remaining bridges underway.
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