The ₹37,000-crore railway project will strengthen connectivity across Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region and improve access to the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations.
The Rishikesh–Karnaprayag railway project in Uttarakhand is progressing towards its targeted completion in December 2029. Spanning approximately 125 km, the project is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹37,000 crore to improve rail connectivity across the Himalayan region and facilitate access to important religious destinations.
Implemented by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways, the railway line will connect Rishikesh with Karnaprayag through 12 stations. The route will pass through Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts, strengthening transport connectivity across the Garhwal region.
Extensive Tunnel Network Through Himalayan Terrain
One of the project’s defining features is its extensive tunnel network, with approximately 83% of the railway route passing through tunnels due to the challenging Himalayan terrain. The project comprises 28 tunnels, including 16 main tunnels and 12 escape tunnels, along with 57 major and minor bridges.
According to the project figures reported on October 22, 2026, approximately 101 km of the planned 104 km of main tunnels and 95 km of the planned 98 km of escape tunnels have been completed. Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology is being used to facilitate construction through the mountainous landscape.
Tunnel breakthroughs have been achieved in 13 of the 16 main tunnels and 10 of the 12 escape tunnels, marking progress across several sections of the alignment.
Bridge Construction and Supporting Infrastructure
Bridge construction is also advancing, with eight major bridges and 30 minor bridges reported as completed. All required land acquisition for the project has been completed, while eight access roads with a combined length of 5 km have been constructed to facilitate construction activities.
The 5-km Virbhadra–Yog Nagari Rishikesh railway section was completed in 2020, forming an operational part of the wider connectivity development in the region.
Improving Connectivity to the Char Dham Region
Once completed, the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag railway line is expected to improve access to the Garhwal Himalayas and facilitate travel towards important pilgrimage destinations associated with Badrinath and Kedarnath. The project is also expected to support tourism and generate employment opportunities in Uttarakhand.
By extending rail connectivity deeper into the Himalayan region, the project aims to strengthen links between Rishikesh and the interior districts of Uttarakhand. Its completion will represent a significant infrastructure development for regional mobility, pilgrimage travel and tourism, subject to the project meeting its December 2029 target. TIE
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