India’s Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway project is taking shape as a major infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity across Uttarakhand’s Himalayan region and providing better access to the Char Dham pilgrimage area.
The 125-kilometre railway line is being developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways at an estimated cost of ₹37,000 crore. The project is targeted for completion by December 2029.
83% of the Route to Pass Through Tunnels
One of the project’s key features is its extensive tunnel network. Around 83% of the railway alignment will pass through tunnels because of the challenging Himalayan terrain.
The project comprises 16 main-line tunnels spanning approximately 104 kilometres and 12 parallel escape tunnels covering around 98 kilometres. It also includes 57 major and minor bridges.
According to the latest project details, around 101 kilometres of the main tunnels and 95 kilometres of the escape tunnels have been completed. Tunnel boring machines and other specialised engineering methods are being used to handle the region’s complex geological conditions.
Rail Connectivity for the Char Dham Region
The railway line will connect Rishikesh with Karnaprayag through 12 stations, passing through Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts.
The project is expected to improve access to important religious and tourist destinations, including Devprayag and areas around Kedarnath and Badrinath. Better rail connectivity could also ease dependence on roads that pass through steep mountain terrain.
Infrastructure and Economic Benefits
Once completed, the railway line is expected to support tourism, create employment opportunities and improve access for local communities. It is also expected to strengthen transport links across the Garhwal region.
Construction has involved extensive tunnelling and bridge work, with the project progressing through difficult geological conditions. The completion of the line is expected to mark a major step in expanding railway infrastructure in the Himalayan region.
The project remains targeted for completion by December 2029.
