Konkan Railway Launches Major Project to Replace Deteriorated Tunnels in Goa
After more than three decades of service, two critical tunnels along the Konkan Railway route in Goa are set to be replaced due to significant structural wear and monsoon-related issues. The Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRC) has officially invited tenders for the detailed design consultancy of two new tunnels, marking a pivotal step in a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency.
Details of the Tunnel Replacement Initiative
The project involves constructing new tunnels parallel to the existing ones: a 544-meter tunnel in Old Goa and a 1,561-meter tunnel in Pernem. According to Baban Ghatge, deputy manager of public relations at Konkan Railway, both existing tunnels have weakened over the years, with rainwater seepage being a persistent problem every monsoon. "The project is in the final stages of approval by the ministry of railways," Ghatge stated. "Once the new tunnels are built and traffic is diverted, the old structures will undergo rehabilitation. This dual approach will facilitate track doubling along this stretch, boosting capacity."
Land acquisition for the new tunnels has already begun, and a patch-doubling proposal is awaiting final approval. The tender for design consultancy and site supervision is pegged at Rs 17 crore, with a completion timeline of 38 months. Official sources estimate the total cost of constructing the two tunnels at over Rs 1,500 crore, underscoring the scale of this investment.
Historical Context and Broader Restructuring Efforts
Both tunnels have a history of disruptions during heavy rains. In August 2020, a 5-meter section of the lined wall inside the Pernem tunnel collapsed, halting train traffic for 40 days. More recently, in July 2024, incessant rainfall inundated tracks in the same tunnel, leading to cancellations and diversions of multiple trains. The Old Goa tunnel also suffers from water and slush ingress during monsoon seasons, highlighting urgent need for replacement.
This initiative is part of a broader financial and infrastructure restructuring plan for KRC. A proposal by the ministry of railways in December 2025 outlines a third financial restructuring for Konkan Railway, covering Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Key components include the construction of these new tunnels and three new crossing stations, all aimed at improving line capacity, safety, and operational efficiency.
Implications for Future Railway Operations
The replacement of these aging tunnels is expected to significantly reduce monsoon-related disruptions and enhance the reliability of train services along the Konkan Railway route. By facilitating track doubling, the project will also support increased freight and passenger traffic, contributing to regional economic growth. As approvals progress, stakeholders anticipate a smoother, more resilient railway network in the coming years.
