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China builds the 2nd LARGEST road tunnel in the world with a length of 22 km and a total cost of R$ 20,3 BILLION!

Written by Roberta Souza
Published 02/01/2025 às 18:19
road tunnel - china - construction
The 22,13 km long Tian Shan Shengli Tunnel is a landmark in the country's engineering and infrastructure! – Photo/reproduction: Xinhua

The Tian Shan Shengli Road Tunnel, with a length of 22,13 km, is a landmark in the country's engineering and infrastructure!

A construction do Tian Shan Shengli Tunnel, now recognized as the greatest road tunnel of the world, represents a great achievement for the China.

With an impressive extension of 22,13 km, the tunnel connects the north and south of the province of Xinjiang, the largest Chinese province in terms of land area.

The work was completed after 8 years of intense work, involving approximately 3.000 workers dedicated.

Significant investment in infrastructure

The total cost of the project was estimated at around US $ 3,5 billion, an investment that reflects China's ambition to modernize its road infrastructure.

This substantial amount is indicative of the Chinese government’s commitment to improving connectivity and facilitating the transportation of goods in the region.

Before the tunnel was built, trucks were forced to travel along narrow, winding roads, resulting in long and dangerous journeys that stretched over several hours.

Now how Tian Shan Shengli Tunnel, trucks will be able to cross the mountain range in just 20 minutes, using a fast and safe route.

Engineering Challenges Faced in the Construction of the Tian Shan Shengli Tunnel

One of the main challenges faced by engineers during construction was the construction of ventilation tower number 2, which reaches 706 meters deep.

This structure is taller than the famous one Shanghai Tower, the tallest skyscraper in China, highlighting the complexity of the project.

Furthermore, the work was carried out in extreme weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from -40°C in winter a +40°C in summer.

The tunnel crosses an inhospitable, desert region, showing how engineering can overcome natural challenges, providing significant benefits to the local and national economy.

Economic and social impact of the new road tunnel

With the completion of the Tian Shan Shengli Road Tunnel, it is expected that the transportation of goods between different parts of Xinjiang Province will become more efficient.

road tunnel - china - construction
The Tian Shan Shengli Road Tunnel, which is 22,13 km long, is a landmark in the country's engineering and infrastructure! – Photo/reproduction: LIU JUN/FOR CHINA DAILY

Reducing travel times will not only facilitate the flow of goods but also boost trade in the region.

It is estimated that the new infrastructure could increase transport capacity by up to 30%, benefiting the logistics sector, according to the website notíciasautomotivas.

Strategic importance for China

This project is a clear example that, through construction and innovation, it is possible to transform complex challenges into development opportunities.

A China continues to excel in large-scale projects, showing that ambition and engineering can go hand in hand to create lasting solutions.

The construction of the Tian Shan Shengli Road Tunnel is not only a technical victory, but also a strategic achievement, in line with China's economic development plans, which aim to connect remote regions and promote sustainable growth in less developed areas.

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Roberta Souza

Petroleum Engineer, postgraduate in Commissioning of Industrial Units, specialist in Industrial Corrosion. Get in touch to suggest an agenda, advertise job vacancies or advertise on our portal. We do not receive resumes

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