Gangtok, Aug 29: In a significant milestone for the Sivok–Rangpo Rail Project, Tunnel No. 03 (T-3) in Darjeeling district achieved a breakthrough on August 25, marking the completion of excavation work for all seven tunnels within the project.
This main tunnel, stretching 1,275 meters, is located between Kajijhora and Swetijhora in the challenging geological and seismic conditions of the Younger Himalayas.
One of the key challenges faced during the construction of this tunnel was the emission of methane gas from coal-bearing formations. Rigorous testing procedures were implemented to monitor methane gas levels as a safety precaution.
The project employed the cutting-edge New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) for ground stability. The tunnel’s design was developed by an American consultancy team, while the execution team consisted of experienced engineers and geologists from India and abroad.
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The Sivok–Rangpo project has made remarkable progress, with completion standing at 57%. This vital railway initiative spans approximately 45 kilometers, connecting Sivok in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim. It includes the construction of 14 tunnels, 17 bridges, and 5 stations along the route.
The longest tunnel (T-10) stretches over 5.3 kilometers, and the longest bridge (Br-17) spans 425 meters. Approximately 38 kilometers of the project’s alignment involve tunneling, with tunneling progress already at 83%.
The mining operations for all tunnels are expected to conclude by January 2024.
Currently, the final lining phase has been completed in tunnel T-14, while active work continues in tunnels T-02, T-05, T-09, T-10, T-11, and T-12. A total of 5.34 kilometers of lining work has been finished to date, with an estimated completion date set for September 2024.
All sections of the project are witnessing continuous operations. Once completed, this prestigious national project will provide the first-ever railway connection to the state of Sikkim.
With construction activities for tunnels, bridges, and station yards in full swing, the project is advancing rapidly toward its completion.
