The Gotthard Base Tunnel, a crucial rail connection between Switzerland and Italy, is set to reopen after a year-long closure due to a train derailment last August. The incident, caused by a broken wheel, resulted in extensive damage to the tunnel and required a lengthy clean-up operation. The cost of repairing the tunnel was estimated to be 150 million Swiss francs, higher than the initial estimate of €135 million.
The closure of the tunnel has posed significant challenges for the rail freight sector, with freight trains being rerouted and additional costs incurred. The reopening of the tunnel will provide relief to rail freight operators, who have been grappling with the closure of the Frejus Railway as well.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel, the longest railway tunnel in the world at 57 kilometres, serves as a vital link between Switzerland’s different regions and was completed after years of planning and construction at a cost of €10.3 billion. The accident has prompted SBB to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The reopening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel is a significant milestone for the rail industry and will facilitate the smooth flow of goods and passengers between Switzerland and Italy. Despite the challenges posed by the closure, rail operators are optimistic about the resumption of operations through the tunnel.
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