Gotthard tunnel switzerland

The Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland is the world's longest railway tunnel, stretching 57 kilometers.

About this subject

The Gotthard Base Tunnel is a masterpiece of modern engineering, located in the Swiss Alps. Opened in 2016, it connects Erstfeld in the canton of Uri to Bodio in Ticino, running beneath the Gotthard massif. Stretching 57 kilometers, it is the longest railway tunnel in the world, surpassing Japan's Seikan Tunnel and the Channel Tunnel. Construction took 17 years and cost about $12 billion, involving the excavation of over 28 million cubic meters of rock.

The tunnel is part of the AlpTransit project, aimed at improving freight and passenger transport efficiency across the Alps. Before its opening, the journey between Zurich and Milan took around four hours; now it can be completed in under three hours. The route also diverts rail traffic from the historic Gotthard Pass, which since the Middle Ages was a crucial crossing through the Alps. Merchants and travelers used the pass for centuries, but harsh winter weather often made it impassable.

A remarkable fact is that temperatures inside the tunnel reach 46°C due to geothermal heat, requiring advanced cooling systems. The tunnel is designed to last over 100 years with continuous maintenance. Note that the Gotthard Base Tunnel should not be confused with the Gotthard Road Tunnel, opened in 1980, which is 16.9 kilometers long and the third longest road tunnel in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the length of the Gotthard Base Tunnel?

The Gotthard Base Tunnel is 57 kilometers long, making it the longest railway tunnel in the world.

When was the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened?

It was officially opened on June 1, 2016, after 17 years of construction.

What is the difference between the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the Gotthard Road Tunnel?

The Gotthard Base Tunnel is a railway tunnel 57 km long; the Gotthard Road Tunnel is 16.9 km and used by vehicles.