India’s Longest Rail Tunnel Nears Completion in Uttarakhand

India’s Longest Rail Tunnel Nears Completion in Uttarakhand

Why in the News ?

The 14.57-km-long Tunnel T-8, part of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line, is nearing completion in Uttarakhand. It is set to become India’s longest transportation tunnel, overcoming significant geological challenges and holds strategic importance for border and pilgrimage connectivity.

India's Longest Rail Tunnel Nears Completion in Uttarakhand

Project Overview and Strategic Importance:

  • Tunnel T-8, spanning 57 km, is part of the 125-km Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail project.
  • This single-line broad-gauge railway will connect Devprayag to Janasu, with 83% of the route (104 km) comprising tunnels.
  • The project covers five districts: Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli.
  • Strategically vital for China border logistics and Char Dham Yatra, the line will cut travel time from 7 hours to 2 hours.

Construction Progress and Techniques

  • Tunnel T-8 recently achieved breakthrough phase (connectivity from both ends).
  • Technologies used include Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) and controlled blasting.
  • A TBM from Germany was shipped via Mundra Port, weighing over 200 tonnes.
  • Ventilation fans, chiller pipes, and conveyor belts support underground construction.
  • Only electrical fittings and track work remain; completion expected by June 2025.

Challenges and Budget Escalation

  • Complex Himalayan geology and frequent landslides posed major hurdles.
  • Workers use quartzitic phyllite blasting for excavation.
  • Originally estimated at ₹16,235 crore, project costs may exceed ₹35,000 crore.
  • Over 2,500 workers are employed on-site in tough, remote conditions.

Vision India@2047: Goals for National Transformation

●Initiated by NITI Aayog to shape India’s long-term development path.
●Target: $30 trillion economy with $18,000–$20,000 per capita income.
●Emphasis on innovation, digital governance, and self-reliance in defence and space.
● Plans to develop world-class infrastructure, reduce government interference, and boost green growth.
●Aims to make India a global R&D and education hub, with top 10 labs and institutions in the global top 100.

Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway: Strategic & Spiritual Lifeline

●Connects Rishikesh to Char Dham pilgrimage sites, easing access for lakhs of devotees.
●Travel time cut from 6–7 hours to 2 hours.
●Over 70% completed, full operation expected by December 2026.
●Will spur eco-tourism, employment, and regional connectivity.
●Enhances disaster resilience by providing safer transport than vulnerable roads.
●Engineering marvel with 12 stations, 16 tunnels, and 19 bridges across 5 districts.