Undersea Railway Tunnel to Revolutionize Travel Between Ningbo and Zhoushan

An ambitious undersea railway tunnel project promises to connect Ningbo and Zhoushan more efficiently by 2028. This transformative infrastructure will significantly reduce travel time between these cities. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Undersea Railway Tunnel Project Begins Construction in China

The Jintang Undersea Tunnel will stretch an incredible 10 miles and form part of the 48-mile Ningbo-Zhoushan Railway. Construction began in May, with China Railway’s 14th Bureau Group leading the project. This underwater marvel aims to cut travel time from 90 minutes to just 30 minutes, offering unparalleled convenience for commuters and traders.

A Game-Changing Undersea Railway Tunnel for Regional Connectivity

The Dinghai Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), weighing 4,350 tonnes, began excavation in October. Working 42 meters beneath sea level, the TBM navigates 28 geological strata transitions, a challenge requiring specialized engineering solutions.

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The tunnel’s deepest section reaches 78 meters below sea level and features a seven-mile shielded portion. Trains will travel through this high-speed railway tunnel at speeds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph), ensuring swift and reliable transit.

Engineering Challenges in Building the Undersea Railway Tunnel

The Jintang Undersea Tunnel crosses under the Jintang Channel, a vital shipping lane for Zhoushan Port. Engineers face the challenge of working in complex marine environments, including navigating oil pipelines, seawalls, docks, and shipping routes. These factors underscore the tunnel’s importance as a technological and logistical achievement.

Currently, ferries and a cross-sea bridge link Ningbo and Zhoushan, but these options are slower and less efficient. The new tunnel will greatly enhance travel and trade while accommodating high freight and passenger volumes.

This project highlights China’s dedication to infrastructure innovation and improving regional connectivity. Once completed, it will join the Seikan Tunnel and Channel Tunnel as one of the world’s longest and most significant undersea railway tunnels.

By 2028, the £3.2bn ($3.9bn) project is expected to redefine transportation between Ningbo and Zhoushan, boosting trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region.

Source: www.express.co.uk

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