Swiss Gotthard Tunnel Closed Indefinitely Following Train Derailment

The Gotthard rail tunnel, the world's longest train tunnel, will be closed for months after a freight service derailed and damaged the track. Sixteen cars remain stuck inside the tunnel, causing significant damage. While one side of the tunnel will be operable for cargo trains next week, passenger train traffic will have to wait for months. Restoration work is expected to continue until the end of 2023. In the meantime, passengers will have to take an alternative scenic route, adding an hour for domestic travelers and two hours for international travelers. The tunnel, opened in 2016, is a crucial thoroughfare for freight traffic between Germany and Italy.