Rishikesh Karnprayag Railway Project
The Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Project is one of the most ambitious railway infrastructure projects in Uttarakhand. The broad gauge railway line will connect Yog Nagari Rishikesh with Karnaprayag, significantly improving rail connectivity to the Garhwal region. Once operational, the railway will make travel easier for local residents, tourists and pilgrims visiting important destinations such as Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and the Char Dham circuit.
The project forms the first phase of the Char Dham Railway Project, which aims to strengthen rail connectivity to Uttarakhand's major pilgrimage destinations.
The Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Project is approximately 126 km long and includes numerous engineering structures, with most of the route passing through tunnels in the Himalayan terrain. The railway corridor will feature multiple bridges, modern railway stations and advanced safety systems designed for mountain rail operations.
Partial Train Services Likely to Start Soon
Construction of the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Project is progressing in phases. Railway authorities have indicated that train services on completed sections may begin before the entire route becomes operational, subject to safety approvals and successful trial runs. As per the latest official updates, full completion of the railway line is expected around 2027–2028.
Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project at a Glance:
- Total cost: Rs 16,216 crore
- Project length: 126 km, with 105 km passing through 17 tunnels
- Longest tunnel: 14.08 km (between Devprayag and Janasu)
- Shortest tunnel: 200 metres (between Sevai and Karnaprayag)
- Tunnels: 11 tunnels exceed six km in length
- Total stations: 13, including Virbhadra, Yog Nagari Rishikesh, Shivpuri, Byasi, Devprayag, Janasu, Maletha, Srinagar (Chauras), Dhari Devi, Rudraprayag (Sumerpur), Gholtir, Gauchar, and Karnaprayag (Sevai)
Future Railway Stations on this Route
The railway stations along the route are being designed to reflect the culture, heritage and architectural identity of Uttarakhand. Each station will provide modern passenger facilities while showcasing local art and traditions.
Virbhadra – Yog Nagri Rishikesh – Shivpuri – Vyasi – Devprayag – Janasu – Maletha – Srinagar (Chauras) – Dhari Devi – Rudraprayag (Sumerpur) – Gholtir – Gauchar – Karnaprayag (Sevai)
Maa Rajeshwari Railway Station (Proposed): According to project reports, the proposed Srinagar railway station is expected to be named Maa Rajeshwari Railway Station. The station will be located at Chauras, across the Alaknanda River from Srinagar.
Importance of the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Project
The railway project is expected to transform transportation in the Garhwal Himalayas by providing faster, safer and more reliable rail connectivity. Besides improving access for pilgrims travelling towards the Char Dham region, it will also benefit local residents, encourage tourism, facilitate movement of goods and strengthen disaster response capabilities in the mountainous districts of Uttarakhand.
Official Website: Rail Vikas Nigam Limited
