Media centre
Would you like to report on the construction of the second Gotthard tunnel or obtain more in-depth information?
Here you can find a comprehensive selection of press releases, high-resolution images and background information on the project. Whether for reporting or further research – all relevant content is available here.
For specific enquiries or additional information, please contact our media contact, Eugenio Sapia.
Frequently asked questions
The existing tube needs to be upgraded in order to guarantee the functionality and safety of the Gotthard road tunnel. Because the works are so extensive, the tunnel needs to be completely closed. On 27 June 2012, the Federal Council decided that a second tunnel tube should be constructed and the existing tube refurbished, with no increase in capacity. This was approved by voters at the ballot box on 28 February 2016.
The second tube is being excavated using two tunnel boring machines (TBMs), which are advancing simultaneously from the north (Göschenen) and south (Airolo) portals. The TBMs are progressing at an average rate of up to 20 meters per day, even in geologically complex areas. Excavation is expected to be completed in 2027.
During construction, approximately 7.4 million tons of rock will be excavated. Some of this material will be reused for the construction of the tunnel and the renovation of the first tube, while another part will be used for the renaturation of Lake Uri and to cover the A2 highway in Airolo.
The project includes environmental remediation measures, such as the renaturation of the valley floor in Airolo and the Göscheneralp valley. In addition, practices are being adopted to minimize the environmental impact during construction.
No, transit capacity will not be increased. Even with two tubes, only one lane will be open in each direction, maintaining current capacity and complying with Swiss constitutional provisions. Currently, 1,000 passenger car units per hour and direction are permitted to travel through the Gotthard road tunnel. Paragraph 3, Article 84 of the Federal Constitution (article on the Protection of the Alps) stipulates that transit road capacity in the Alpine region may not be increased. Specific provisions regarding a second tube are set out in the Federal Act on Transit Road Traffic in the Alpine Region, which also stipulates that the capacity of the tunnel system may not be increased. Only one lane may be operated in each tube; if only one tube is open to traffic, one lane in each direction may be used in this tube. The law also states that there must also be a system to regulate the number of heavy goods vehicles in the tunnel.
Yes, tours of the construction sites can be arranged as guided tours (for groups of 6 or more) or independently. More information can be found here.
In addition, once a year (alternating between north and south), there are open days and guided tours of the Göschenen and Airolo construction sites. These initiatives allow the public to see the work in progress up close.
The information centers offer multimedia and interactive exhibitions that illustrate the second tube project, the construction techniques, and the impact on the region. They are suitable for visitors of all ages.
Construction of the second tube began in 2020 and is expected to open to traffic in 2030. The first tube will then be renovated, with completion expected in 2033.
The estimated cost of constructing the second tube is approximately 2.14 billion Swiss francs (estimate +/- 15%, including VAT).
With two separate tubes, each equipped with one traffic lane and one emergency lane, safety will be improved in several ways: separating the directions of traffic reduces the risk of accidents and facilitates rescue operations in case of emergency. Furthermore, if one tube has to be closed due to a fault, maintenance work, or exceptional transport, it will be possible to use the other tube with two lanes. This will ensure that the important connection between the north and south of the Alps is always maintained.
During the construction of the second tube, traffic will continue to flow through the first tube. Once the second tube is completed, traffic will be diverted to it to allow for the renovation of the first tube.
Current material for media: videos and immages relating to the press release dated 28 November 2025
Current videos and photos of the tunnel boring machine "Paulina", the counter-advance and the disturbance zone.
Please note the copyright: © Federal Roads Office FEDRO
Photo gallery north
In the photo gallery you will find a selection of high-resoluation photos of the construction of the second Gotthard tunnel tube. The images may be used for editorial purposes provided the source is acknowledged. Please note that all image rights remain with the Federal Roads Office FEDRO. Commercial use of the images is not permitted.
Photo gallery south
In the photo gallery you will find a selection of high-resoluation photos of the construction of the second Gotthard tunnel tube. The images may be used for editorial purposes provided the source is acknowledged. Please note that all image rights remain with the Federal Roads Office FEDRO. Commercial use of the images is not permitted.
Press releases
You can download the press release on the project here.
Information magazines
The Federal Roads Office FEDRO regularly informs the public about the status of work at the two construction sites in Göschenen and Airolo for the construction of the second Gotthard road tunnel. All the information magazines published to date can be found on this page.
Göschenen (in German)
Airolo (in Italian)
The Federal Roads Office FEDRO is at your disposal for any further questions. Members of the media are requested to contact the dedicated contact person, Eugenio Sapia, directly.