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Detail Design
The Channel Tunnel Rail Link, Britain’s first high-speed rail line, is heading toward completion. The first section, from the Channel Tunnel to North Kent, is open, and work is progressing on the second section, which will take the line into London. Its terminus will be St. Pancras Station, a Victorian landmark undergoing renovation to accommodate high-speed Eurostar trains (see story).
Nearly half the work on Section 2 involves tunneling—much of it beneath North and East London. Constructing underground tunnels poses several challenges: how best to cut through the earth; what to do with excavated soil and rock; and how to create a stable, ventilated work environment in tight quarters. Plus, the work must not disturb buildings, roads, and other infrastructure above the tunnels.
To meet the challenges, Bechtel and its partners are combining expertise in tunnel engineering with new technology.
To view a graphic glimpse of Tunneling Home, click here to download a PDF (2.73 MB) version of the illustration.
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