Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has achieved a landmark in the prestigious Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link project. Of the total 213 km of planned tunnel excavation, 200 km have been completed in a record time of 54 months, along with 113 kilometers of final lining. The transformational rail project is expected to boost connectivity, tourism, and economic growth in Uttrakhand.
Introduction:
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) marked a historic achievement in India’s railway infrastructure, with the crossing of a critical milestone by 200 km of tunnel excavation completed out of 213 kilometers in just 54 months, in the ambitious Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link Project.
The project is considered to be a lifeline for Uttrakhand, which aims to transform connectivity between Rishikesh and Karnaprayag, while linking religious hubs and boosting the local economy. It stretches over 125 kilometers in length and passes through difficult terrain of the Himalayas.
A Project in Challenging Terrain:
Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw described the Rishikesh-Karanprayag rail link as a prestigious project of Indian Railways. The line is located entirely within Uttrakhand, travelling through the difficult Himalayan terrain, making it one of the most technologically challenging infrastructure projects in India.
Key highlights:
- Total project length: 125 km
- Tunnel scope: 213 km (main + escape tunnels)
- Main line tunnels: 16, spanning 105 km
- Escape tunnels: 12, covering 98 km
- Completed so far: 13 main line tunnels and 9 escape tunnels
Engineering Marvels and Technological Firsts:
RVNL’s work on the project has introduced several engineering innovations. Notably, Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) have been deployed in Himalayan geology for the first time in Indian Railways’ history. The longest tunnel, T-8, stretches 14.8 km and has been successfully excavated using TBM technology.
To speed up progress, 8 Adits were created across long tunnels, providing additional excavation faces and ensuring timely breakthroughs. These efforts highlight the use of cutting-edge engineering while maintaining ecological safety in the fragile Himalayan environment.
Transforming Connectivity and Development:
Once operational, the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail link will be a gamechanger for Uttarakhand. Benefits include:
- Boost to tourism and pilgrimage: Easier access to holy shrines such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, and Valley of Flowers.
- Improved regional economy: Opening up new trade, business, and employment opportunities.
- Enhanced disaster response: Faster evacuation and relief operations during natural calamities.
- Seamless travel: Direct connectivity between Uttarakhand and the National Capital Region.
This project is expected to redefine accessibility in the hill state, reducing travel time drastically and offering a safer alternative to road transport.
Government’s Continued Focus on Uttarakhand:
The government has emphasized its commitment to strengthening connectivity and to foster holistic growth in the state by sanctioning three surveys between 2022 and 2026, covering 146 km for new lines and doubling works in Uttrakhand.
Conclusion:
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail project is not only an infrastructure milestone but also a vision for the future of Uttrakhand. With 200 km of tunnels completed, RVNL is setting new benchmarks in Indian railway engineering and is also poised to deliver a lifeline that will transform connectivity, tourism, and development in the Himalayan state.
Source: RVNL | Image Credit: RVNL
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