Webuild Completes Italy’s First Hyperbaric Rail Tunnel Project

Webuild has completed Italy’s first hyperbaric excavation tunnel on the Naples–Bari high-speed rail line, marking a major achievement for sustainable engineering and future mobility in southern Italy. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Located on the Naples–Cancello section, the 650-meter Casalnuovo Tunnel was excavated using hyperbaric technology. This method displaced groundwater with pressurized air, ensuring dry conditions and eliminating the need for cement mixes and chemical additives.

All excavation machinery operated on electricity, achieving zero emissions and aligning with sustainability goals. Workers adapted to the pressurized environment through compensation chambers, while continuous health monitoring ensured safety throughout the construction process.

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Webuild Advances Track Installation on Naples–Cancello Section

Track installation began in February and already covers more than 10 kilometers. Progress remains on schedule, with completion expected by late summer. Once the Naples–Cancello and Cancello–Frasso sections open in 2025, travel between Naples and Bari will drop to just two hours and 40 minutes.

This significant reduction from four hours will enhance connectivity and convenience for travelers. Moreover, no train changes will be required, improving both speed and comfort across the route.

Future Expansion and Webuild’s Strategic Role in Connectivity

By early 2026, the Naples–Cancello section will allow high-speed trains to access Napoli Afragola station. New stations at Acerra and Casalnuovo will extend service to surrounding communities, including Casoria, Afragola, Caivano, and Acerra.

The full 145-kilometer Naples–Bari line will feature 15 tunnels, 25 viaducts, and 20 stations. Travel times will be dramatically reduced: Naples to Bari in two hours, Rome to Bari in three, and Rome to Lecce or Taranto in four.

As part of the Scandinavian–Mediterranean Corridor of the TEN-T Network, this project strengthens Italy’s link to Europe. It underlines Webuild’s leadership in delivering sustainable, large-scale infrastructure that supports modern mobility and regional growth.

Source, photo: railwaypro.com

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