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Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project Hits 41st Tunnel Milestone
Confirmed
In Short: The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of its 41st tunnel, Escape Tunnel-1.
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project, a broad-gauge railway line in Uttarakhand, has reached a major milestone with the completion of its 41st tunnel, Escape Tunnel-1, on September 11, 2026. This project, developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited under the Ministry of Railways, is estimated to cost Rs 37,000 crore and is scheduled for completion by December 2029.
The 125-kilometer railway line is designed to connect Rishikesh with Karnaprayag through the Himalayan region, featuring multiple tunnels, bridges, and viaducts. Escape Tunnel-1, at 10.847 kilometers, is the second-longest tunnel in the project. By September 2026, the project had reached 78% physical progress, with 97% of the tunnel excavation completed.
The project's progress is being closely monitored due to the challenging geological conditions, particularly the presence of thick mylonite zones near the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT). According to the Ministry of Railways, these conditions have necessitated careful planning and execution. Saleem Ahmad, the CMD of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited, stated that the project has achieved 78% overall progress, with 97% of the tunnel excavation completed as of August 2026.
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project is expected to significantly improve rail connectivity in Uttarakhand and enhance travel to the Himalayan region. With five tunnel breakthroughs remaining, the project is on track to meet its target completion date of December 2029. The project is being developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, and is estimated to cost Rs 37,000 crore.
The completion of Escape Tunnel-1 marks a significant step forward in the project, bringing the much-anticipated Himalayan railway closer to completion. The project's success is attributed to the careful planning and execution, despite the challenging geological conditions. As the project progresses, it is expected to provide a safer and more efficient rail transport option for the region.
What's confirmed
- The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project recorded its 41st tunnel breakthrough on 11 September 2026 with the completion of Escape Tunnel-1.
What's still developing
- The tunnel breakthrough took place in highly tectonised, multi-folded, and extensively faulted rock formations.
- Such projects are planned with escape tunnels, ventilation systems, and drainage arrangements for safety and maintenance.