Gotthard tunnel switzerland

The Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland is the world's longest railway tunnel, spanning 57 km beneath the Alps.

About this subject

The Gotthard Base Tunnel is a masterpiece of Swiss engineering, located in the Alps, connecting the cantons of Uri and Ticino. Inaugurated on June 1, 2016, after 17 years of construction, it reduces travel time between Zurich and Milan to under three hours. At 57 kilometers in length, it is the world's longest and deepest railway tunnel, reaching a maximum depth of 2,300 metres. Its excavation involved removing 28.2 million tonnes of rock using tunnel boring machines and dynamite. The project cost around 12.2 billion Swiss francs and is part of the AlpTransit program, which aims to shift freight transport from road to rail, reducing emissions and congestion. The tunnel traverses granite and gneiss rocks, requiring innovative solutions to handle high temperatures (up to 46°C) and geological pressure. Beyond its practical function, the tunnel symbolizes Swiss efficiency and precision, marking a milestone in European rail transport history. It is operated by high-speed electric trains, capable of handling up to 200 freight cars per hour in each direction. The safety system features two separate tubes connected by cross-passages every 325 metres, allowing rapid evacuation in emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact length of the Gotthard Base Tunnel?

The tunnel is 57.09 kilometres long, making it the world's longest railway tunnel.

When was the Gotthard Base Tunnel inaugurated?

It was officially inaugurated on June 1, 2016, with commercial operations starting on December 11, 2016.

Why is the Gotthard Base Tunnel important for European transport?

It significantly reduces travel time between northern and southern Europe, and shifts freight transport from roads to rails, lowering CO₂ emissions and easing congestion on Alpine highways.