L&T Construction has emerged as the lowest bidder for Package 4 of a new broad-gauge line between Rishikesh and Karnaprayag in Uttarakhand, India.

The $457m project is being executed by state-owned Rail Vikas Nigam, LiveMint reported, citing a person aware of the development.

The company will secure the contract from Rail Vikas Nigam, the source said.

The scope of the project comprises shaft construction, finishing tunnel work, and ancillary works.

The new railway tracks will connect Rishikesh and Karanprayag, thereby easing access to a pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, as well as aiding the development of backward areas.

The company is currently involved in building the Rishikesh-Karanprayag Tunnel 2 package, which is implemented by Rail Vikas Nigam.

This project was won by the company in December 2019 and includes the construction of tunnels, bridges and formation works.

The Rishikesh-Karanprayag rail project is claimed to be a challenging project, given that more than 84% of the total length of 125km of the track will feature 34 bridges and tunnels.

Indian Railways is aiming to complete the project by December 2024.

In October 2020, L&T emerged as the lowest bidder for building the largest part of the bullet train project between the cities of Mumbai and Ahmedabad.