The Rishikesh to Karnaprayag train is an ambitious project by the Ministry of Railways that is set to revolutionize travel in Uttarakhand.
This rail line, covering 125.20 kilometers, is expected to transform accessibility to the Devbhoomi region, providing a major boost to religious tourism and infrastructure development in the state.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Project Start Date
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Project commenced with a vision to enhance connectivity in the Himalayan region. Initiated by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the project has been meticulously planned, focusing on geographical challenges and infrastructure requirements to create a robust rail network
Read Also: Char Dham Railway Project Start Date, Status, Map, Cost and Completion Date
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Project Status
As of now, the project is progressing steadily, with remarkable advancements in tunnel and station construction. Out of the 125.20 km of rail line, 104 km will run through tunnels, constituting 84% of the route. With 17 tunnels, including a 15.1 km tunnel between Devprayag and Lachmoli, the project is a technological marvel.
Substantial progress has also been made on station development. Of the 12 planned stations, most are nearing completion. The tunnels have reached an impressive milestone, with 176 kilometers of the planned 213 kilometers already excavated.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Completion Deadline
The project is slated for completion by December 2024, with operations expected to commence by March 2025. This timeline aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring timely delivery of infrastructure projects under its PRAGATI (Pro Active Governance and Timely Implementation) portal.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Station List
The Rishikesh-Karnaprayag line will connect the following stations:
- Yog Nagari Rishikesh
- Muni ki Reti
- Shivpuri
- Manjilgaon
- Sakni
- Devprayag
- Kirti Nagar
- Srinagar
- Dhari Devi
- Rudraprayag
- Gholtir
- Karnaprayag
These stations have been strategically chosen to enhance connectivity across Uttarakhand, providing access to major religious and tourist destinations.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Project Map and Design
The rail line is a single-track broad gauge, designed to tackle the region’s challenging terrain. A ballastless track system ensures durability and smooth operation. The project includes 35 bridges and 17 tunnels, making it an engineering marvel.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Project Cost
The estimated cost of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail project is Rs. 16,200 crore. This investment is expected to generate over 2,000 jobs and significantly reduce travel time from seven hours to just two hours, making it a cost-effective and efficient transportation option.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Key Features of the Project
- Strategic Importance: The project will enhance accessibility to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—boosting religious tourism.
- Technological Innovations: Advanced data logger systems will monitor train operations to ensure safety and prevent collisions.
- Economic Growth: By improving connectivity, the project is expected to drive economic and infrastructural development in Uttarakhand’s five districts—Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli.
- Environmental Impact: The project’s efficient design aims to minimize ecological disruption, aligning with sustainable development goals.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Contractors and Milestones
Multiple renowned contractors, including Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Hindustan Construction Company (HCC), and Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Limited (MEIL), are collaborating on this project. Each contractor is responsible for specific tunnel packages, ensuring the timely completion of this massive undertaking.
Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Transforming Devbhoomi
Once operational, the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line will transform travel in the region, making religious and tourist destinations more accessible. Pilgrims will benefit from faster, safer, and more reliable transportation options, reducing dependency on road travel, which is often hindered by landslides and traffic congestion.
The Rishikesh to Karnaprayag Train Project is a landmark initiative, showcasing the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity in Uttarakhand. By reducing travel time, enhancing safety, and promoting economic growth, the project is poised to bring transformative changes to the Devbhoomi region. As the completion date draws near, anticipation grows for the day when this rail line will become a lifeline for residents, pilgrims, and tourists alike.
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