RVNL completes major escape tunnel for Rishikesh Karnprayag project

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited has successfully completed the final breakthrough of Escape Tunnel-1 for the Rishikesh-Karnprayag Rail Project on September 11, 2026. This achievement marks the 41st tunnel breakthrough for the vital infrastructure initiative under the Ministry of Railways. The project aims to transform connectivity in Uttarakhand by easing travel for pilgrims and tourists while boosting regional development.

Escape Tunnel-1 measures 10.847 kilometers in length, making it the second-longest tunnel within the entire project. Construction teams overcame severe Himalayan geological challenges, including multi-folded and faulted rock formations along with thick mylonite zones near the Main Boundary Thrust. Nishith Sharma, Project Manager for Package-I of Max Infra Projects, stated that the excavation is complete and the main railway tunnel breakthrough is expected in about four months.

Overall Project Progress and Timeline

The grand 125-kilometer rail line carries an estimated total cost of Rs 37,000 crore. Overall progress currently stands at approximately 78 percent, with about 97 percent of total tunnel excavation finished. RVNL Chairman and Managing Director Saleem Ahmad highlighted this progress as the initiative moves steadily toward its target completion date of December 2029. The Ministry of Railways praised the Rishikesh Project Implementation Unit for their technical expertise and dedication.

As of September 12, 2026, only five tunnel breakthroughs remain across the entire project. Once fully operational, this transformative railway line will significantly improve travel to Uttarakhand, facilitate the Char Dham pilgrimage, bolster regional tourism, and enhance strategic border connectivity.