World’s longest rail tunnel opens in Switzerland

The Gotthard rail tunnel through the Alps has opened to great fanfare from across Europe. Two separate celebrations were held at each end of the tunnel, with visiting heads of state and dignitaries in attendance.  The tunnel was opened by Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann. Speaking from the north portal in Rynächt, canton Uri, the visibly proud minister said: "Today is an historic day for our country: We have completed the Gotthard Base Tunnel, an epic feat of engineering, a project that has involved generations, from the first sketches, to the planning and construction of the tunnel. I feel extremely proud, but also quite humble." Transport Minister Doris Leuthard, from the south portal at Pollegio in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, added that the tunnel was "also a symbol of openness and progress", that linked different languages, cultures, and peoples. It also strengthened cohesion in Switzerland and Europe and boosted the economy, she said. Later, ...