In a historic milestone, RVNL has completed the breakthrough of India’s longest rail tunnel (14.57 km) – Tunnel 8 – as part of the 125 km Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Link Project. This milestone is achieved with advanced TBM technology in the challenging Himalayan terrain, this marks a significant step in India’s rail infrastructure journey.
Historic Moment in the Himalayas:
On April 16, 2025, India celebrated not just the anniversary of its first rail journey but also the breakthrough of Tunnel 8—India’s longest rail tunnel (14.57 km)—in the presence of the Hon’ble Railway Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw. This event took place at Janasu, Uttarakhand, under the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link Project.
Engineering Marvel-Tunnel No. 8:
Built using a 9-meter diameter single-shield Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), Tunnel No. 8 stands as a global benchmark in rail tunneling. Designed for Seismic Zone IV conditions, the tunnel showcases resilience, innovation, and technical excellence suited to the demanding Himalayan landscape.
Logistical Mastery in Mountain Terrain:
- The project faced immense challenges, such as transporting 160 MT TBM components across narrow mountain roads and installing them at elevations above 800 meters.
- The breakthrough reflects not just construction success, but meticulous logistical planning and coordination.
Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Link-Transforming Connectivity:
Spanning 125 km, this strategic broad-gauge rail project aims to bolster regional connectivity, all-weather access, tourism, and disaster preparedness in Uttarakhand. The route includes:
- 17 Main Tunnels & 12 Escape Tunnels (83% of the alignment),
- 19 Major Bridges & 12 New Stations,
- Engineering tuned to seismic and environmental challenges.
Collaboration & Innovation:
The project integrates world-class safety standards and is backed by expertise from IIT Roorkee and international consultants. It exemplifies RVNL’s commitment to sustainable and future-ready transport infrastructure.
Conclusion:
RVNL’s successful breakthrough of Tunnel 8 in the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Link Project marks a pivotal moment in Indian infrastructure development. It combines engineering excellence with socio-economic vision, promising enhanced connectivity, tourism, and resilience in the Himalayan region. The full 125 km corridor is slated for commissioning by December 2026.
Source: RVNL | Images Credit: RVNL
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