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China builds the second longest road tunnel in the WORLD: 21 km, US$ 3,7 billion and 20 minutes to cross giant mountains

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 19/12/2024 às 23:40
Updated 22/12/2024 às 16:17
China builds the longest road tunnel in the WORLD: 21 km, US$ 3,7 billion and 20 minutes to cross giant mountains
The world’s second-longest road tunnel is being built to drastically reduce travel time between Urumqi and Korla, shortening a 480km journey to less than 2 hours by traversing the challenging Tianshan Mountains. It aims to boost the economic development of the Xinjiang region by connecting it to the Silk Road Economic Belt and strengthening trade in Central Asia.

At 21 km long, with US$3,7 billion invested and expected to be completed in 2031, the world's largest road tunnel promises to reduce journeys from 480 km to less than 2 hours, crossing the imposing Tianshan Mountains.

China is once again impressing the world with its engineering prowess. At a cost of $3,7 billion and with a timeline extending until 2031, the Tianshan Shengli Road Tunnel will be the second-longest in the world. The project, which will cut through the mighty Tianshan Mountains, promises to transform Xinjiang’s transportation and economy.

But why is this project so important? The 21-kilometer tunnel will not only reduce travel but will also open doors for development economic and social of one of the most strategic regions of China.

A work of epic proportions: The Tianshan Shengli Tunnel

The 21-km-long Tianshan Shengli Tunnel is being excavated using cutting-edge civil engineering technologies, including advanced drilling machines capable of operating in the rocky and unstable terrain of the Tianshan Mountains.
The 21-km-long Tianshan Shengli Tunnel is being excavated using cutting-edge civil engineering technologies, including advanced drilling machines capable of operating in the rocky and unstable terrain of the Tianshan Mountains.

Imagine crossing one of the world’s largest mountain ranges in just 20 minutes. That’s the impact of the Tianshan Shengli, a project that will drastically reduce travel time between Urumqi and Korla from 480 kilometers to less than two hours. The tunnel will be an engineering milestone, showing how technology and planning can transform inhospitable landscapes into accessible routes.

Crossing the Tianshan Mountains used to be a challenging and time-consuming journey. With the new tunnel, residents and merchants will have a faster and safer alternative, boosting trade and improving the quality of life in the region. The connectivity promises to attract investment and stimulate tourism.

Economic benefits of the world's longest road tunnel

The construction of Tianshan Shengli It is more than an infrastructure project — is a catalyst for Xinjiang’s economic development. With new trade routes, the region will be able to make better use of its energy reserves and natural resources, attracting companies and creating jobs.

Xinjiang, located at the heart of the Silk Road Economic Belt, plays a crucial role in the connectivity between China and Central Asian countries. The tunnel will help consolidate this position, strengthening trade and geopolitically strategic relations.

Digging under the Tianshan Mountains

The Tianshan Mountains are no easy hurdle to overcome. At nearly 320 miles wide, they pose a technical and environmental challenge. However, advanced excavation and engineering techniques are being used to ensure the safety and efficiency of the project.

While other impressive tunnels, such as Rogfast in Norway, are also under construction, Tianshan Shengli stands out for its complexity and strategic impact. It combines technical challenges with unique economic and geopolitical ambitions.

The importance of Xinjiang to China

Xinjiang is a strategic region, bordering eight countries including Russia and Kazakhstan. The Tianshan Shengli will not only benefit domestic trade, but also strengthen China's influence in Central Asia, creating new opportunities for economic cooperation.

Tianshan Shengli is more than a tunnel, is a symbol of the human ability to overcome barriers natural resources and transform entire regions. This project not only shortens distances, but also builds bridges to the future, connecting economies and cultures.

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Alexandre
Alexandre
20/12/2024 04:11

I'm looking for a job, I saw your ad and I'm interested, I'd like more information.

Yshshhsy
Yshshhsy
20/12/2024 21:42

The world's longest road tunnel is in Norway... 24 km... stop making Chinese propaganda...

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%A6rdal_Tunnel

Ricardo
Ricardo
In reply to  Alexandre
22/12/2024 08:31

Go fight my friend

Johnny
Johnny
In reply to  Yshshhsy
24/12/2024 23:01

That's why it's the 2nd largest tunnel!

Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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