The Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail project, a vital infrastructure initiative aimed at connecting the Garhwal hills to the broader railway network, is moving steadily towards completion. According to the latest update from Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the remaining seven tunnels—comprising six main and escape tunnels—are expected to be completed by March 2026.
The 125-kilometre-long rail line, which runs predominantly through hilly terrain, will pass through a total of 46 tunnels. Together, the main and escape tunnels will span approximately 213 kilometres, of which 198 kilometres have already been completed. A recent breakthrough on another tunnel marked continued progress, leaving only seven to be completed.
The tunnels currently under construction include sections between Dhalwala to Shivpuri, Kaudiyala to beyond Teen Dhara, and Tilni to Gholtir. One of the critical escape tunnels from Devprayag to Janasu is also slated for completion within this timeframe, with the corresponding main tunnel already finished.
The project includes the construction of escape tunnels parallel to the main tunnels, ensuring safety in case of emergencies. These tunnels intersect every 375 meters, allowing rapid evacuation if needed.
A major challenge during construction occurred near Maroda village, where landslides during tunnel excavation forced the displacement of residents and raised safety concerns. Despite such setbacks, RVNL remains committed to completing the project within the revised deadline.
Originally, the tunnel work was scheduled to be finished by December 2025. However, due to unforeseen delays, the timeline was extended to March 2026.
First sanctioned in September 2011, the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail line was initially approved with an estimated cost of ₹4,295 crore. By November 2016, the project’s budget was revised to ₹16,216.31 crore. The line passes through five districts—Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli—and is considered strategically crucial for enhancing connectivity and security in the region.
According to O.P. Malgudi, Deputy General Manager (Civil), RVNL, 39 of the 46 tunnels have already achieved breakthroughs. The final stretch, including both main and escape tunnels, will be completed by March 2026.