China has set a remarkable new record by completing the excavation of the world’s largest underwater shield tunnel in just 110 days. This impressive project is located beneath the Yellow River in Jinan and stretches 3.6 miles long. The tunnel has an extraordinary diameter of 55.8 feet, making it the widest of its kind in the world. Once finished, it will significantly enhance transportation and connectivity in the region.
The construction relies on the cutting-edge “Shanhe” boring machine, a highly advanced piece of technology capable of digging between 52.5 and 59 feet per day. This machine is specifically designed to withstand high-pressure conditions and comes equipped with modern features, including a state-of-the-art flushing system and an automatic air cushion to ensure safe and efficient operations.
When completed, the tunnel will have three lanes in each direction, greatly improving traffic flow and reducing travel time in the area. This ambitious project, which showcases China’s engineering and innovation expertise, is expected to be fully completed by late 2025.
