Completed in 2016, the Gotthard Base Tunnel is not only a marvel of modern engineering but also the world’s longest railway tunnel, extending for an impressive 57.1 kilometers (35.5 miles) beneath the majestic Swiss Alps. The tunnel is a pivotal part of the New Railway Link through the Alps (NRLA) project, aimed at enhancing transportation routes across Europe.
The construction of the Gotthard Base Tunnel was a monumental task that took approximately 17 years to complete, starting in 1999. The idea behind this colossal project was to shift the transport of goods from road to rail, thereby reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact in one of Europe’s busiest transport corridors. It was also designed to significantly cut the travel time for passengers traveling between major northern and southern European cities.
About 2,600 workers were involved in the tunnel’s construction, which required groundbreaking techniques in drilling and geotechnical engineering. Operating under enormous overburden pressures and the complexities of the alpine geology posed significant challenges. However, the project was remarkably completed on time and within its budget of nearly 12 billion Swiss francs.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel consists of two single-track tubes running up to 40 meters apart, connected every 325 meters by cross passages. This extensive tunnel system not only improves the safety mechanisms but also ensures efficient maintenance while in operation. It facilitates a flat low-level route for trains, unlike older tunnels which require trains to ascend steep gradients. The design allows for a maximum speed of 250 kilometers per hour for passenger trains and 160 kilometers per hour for freight services.
The inauguration of the tunnel marked a significant milestone in European rail transport by facilitating smoother and quicker transit of goods and passengers. It effectively reduces the travel time between Zurich, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy, by about an hour, fostering greater cultural and economic exchanges between the regions. Additionally, it stands as a testament to Switzerland’s commitment to sustainable development and green transportation solutions in the face of global challenges such as climate change and urban congestion.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel is not just an engineering triumph but also a symbol of how technology and tenacity can overcome natural barriers, promoting connectivity and unity between nations.
