Historic Tunnel Breakthrough in Janasu
India Breaks Through Longest Rail Tunnel in Uttarakhand: Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Project Milestone: On April 16, 2025, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a significant milestone in Indian railway history — the successful alignment of the country’s longest rail tunnel at Janasu in Uttarakhand, marking a breakthrough in the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway project.This achievement is part of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link Project, a 125 km stretch that connects the pilgrimage-rich region of Garhwal Himalayas. The event coincided with the 172nd anniversary of India’s first passenger railway, adding symbolic weight to the occasion.
Engineering and Environmental Innovations
The breakthrough occurred in Tunnel No. 8, a 14.57 km twin tunnel, marking a significant feat in mountain tunnelling. What makes this even more remarkable is the use of TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) technology — a first for Indian railways in mountainous terrain. The German-made TBM called ‘Shakti’ reduced environmental damage compared to traditional blasting methods. The New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) was also used to ensure safe and controlled excavation, addressing seismic concerns since the project lies in Seismic Zone IV.
Strategic Importance of the Rail Line
The Rishikesh–Karnaprayag rail line holds immense religious and strategic value. It will link Rishikesh directly to Karnaprayag, acting as a rail base for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. The train journey, which will cut travel time from 6–7 hours to just 2 hours, is expected to benefit lakhs of pilgrims annually. The project will also enhance disaster preparedness in the hilly terrain, offering a safer alternative to road travel during landslides and floods.
Overcoming Terrain and Logistical Barriers
Executing this engineering marvel required transporting 165 MT machinery from Mundra Port to remote Himalayan sites, often through narrow, landslide-prone roads. Engineers had to continuously adapt to changing rock formations, seasonal disruptions, and ecological sensitivities. Despite these difficulties, over 70% of the work has been completed as of early 2025. The entire line is expected to be operational by December 2026, while tunnel and structural work will finish by end-2025.
Transformative Potential for Uttarakhand
Beyond connectivity, the project is expected to boost eco-tourism and create jobs, enhancing local livelihoods in five districts. Twelve new stations, 16 major tunnels, and 19 bridges will reshape the region’s infrastructure, turning it into a spiritual and adventure-tourism hotspot. With better transport, the region is set to attract investment, promote handicrafts, and support local economies that currently rely on seasonal travel.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
India Breaks Through Longest Rail Tunnel in Uttarakhand: Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Project Milestone:
| Topic | Details |
| Project Name | Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link |
| Longest Tunnel | Tunnel No. 8 at Janasu (14.57 km) |
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Technology Used | TBM ‘Shakti’ (German-made), NATM Method |
| Minister Involved | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| Religious Sites Connected | Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri |
| Earthquake Zone | Seismic Zone IV |
| First Tunnel Breakthrough | April 16, 2025 |
| Full Line Operational By | December 2026 |
| Length of Line | 125 km (83% in tunnels) |
