India is rewriting history—one tunnel at a time. The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project in Uttarakhand now features the world’s longest rail tunnel. With a length of 14.57 kilometers, this engineering marvel achieved a world record for tunnel excavation speed, digging at an average of 413 meters per month.
Let’s explore how this record-breaking tunnel came to life and what it means for the future of Indian railways.
Historic Breakthrough Achieved
On April 16, 2025, Indian Railways completed the first breakthrough of the 14.57 km tunnel between Saud and Janasu. This achievement was celebrated with loud chants of “Vande Mataram” as workers, engineers, and officials hugged each other in joy.
- Project: Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Line
- Tunnel Length: 14.57 km (World’s longest)
- Construction Started: December 16, 2022
- Excavation Speed: 413 meters/month (World record)
- Machinery Used: Single-shield Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM)
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and MP Anil Baluni were present during the event.
The Tunnel Behind the Record
The breakthrough was made using the TBM “Shakti”. Another TBM named “Shiva” is expected to complete its part by July 2025. Once the TBM pierced through, the atmosphere turned festive.
“The tunnel pierced the mountain. The workers danced.”
According to officials, 37 out of 46 planned tunnel breakthroughs are already done. The remaining nine will be finished by April 2026.
The Scale of the Project
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line spans 125 km, out of which nearly 105 km will pass through tunnels. The Saud-Janasu stretch is the longest.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Project Length | 125 km |
| Tunnel Coverage | 105 km |
| Number of Tunnels | 16 |
| Breakthroughs Completed | 37 out of 46 |
| Project Completion Target | April 2026 |
This level of tunnel density is rare in railway projects globally.
Global Recognition and Praise
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called it a “project of wonder.” He praised the use of modern techniques and said the world is watching. During his visit, he stopped by the Yoganagari Rishikesh Railway Station, tasted local tea, and even made an online payment for it—adding a human touch to the official tour.
“This challenge, we accepted. This record, we built.”
He emphasized that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision made this dream possible.
A Dream Come True for Locals
Former Chief Minister and Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat said the people once doubted if the railway would ever reach here. Now, with progress visible, they are filled with hope. He added that this route will ease travel for pilgrims heading to Badrinath and Kedarnath.
The project doesn’t just connect towns—it connects people to their cultural roots.
Local Voices Demand More
Former Mayor Anita Mamgain submitted a formal request to the Railway Minister. She asked for all trains from Dehradun to stop at Raiwala Station, given that Rishikesh serves as a spiritual and regional gateway to the Garhwal division.
Final Thoughts
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project isn’t just an engineering feat. It’s a story of vision, execution, and dreams fulfilled. With the world’s longest tunnel now part of India’s rail network, the country has made a bold statement in infrastructure and innovation.
FAQs
Q1. What is the total length of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway?
It’s 125 kilometers long, with 105 km inside tunnels.
Q2. How long is the Janasu tunnel?
14.57 kilometers, making it the world’s longest railway tunnel.
Q3. What speed did Indian Railways achieve during tunneling?
They maintained an average excavation rate of 413 meters per month.
Q4. When is the project expected to finish?
April 2026 for tunnel work; overall completion by early 2027.
Q5. Who are the key officials involved?
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, and MP Trivendra Singh Rawat.
