Swiss Gotthard Tunnel, World's Longest, to Close for Months Following Freight Derailment

The Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world's longest and deepest rail tunnel located in the Swiss Alps, will be closed for several months due to a recent freight derailment. The extent of the damage was found to be greater than initially estimated, with 16 cars derailing and some freight cars badly damaged. While the undamaged east tunnel tube will be operational for freight traffic from August 23, both tunnel tubes are expected to be available for all rail traffic to a limited extent at the beginning of next year. The closure will cause inconvenience for rail passengers and freight customers.