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With a mega investment of R$5,8 billion and expected to generate 9 jobs, the underwater tunnel promises to revolutionize mobility and the economy of the São Paulo coast.
Brazil is about to undertake one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in its history: the first underwater tunnel in Latin America. With a huge investment of R$5,8 billion, the project, which will connect Santos to Guarujá, promises to revolutionize mobility in the region, generate jobs and improve the local economy. The idea of connecting these two cities through an underwater crossing is a long-standing dream that is finally beginning to take shape.
The underwater tunnel megaproject
The construction of the underwater tunnel will be a milestone not only for Brazil, but for all of Latin America. The project will have a total length of 1,5 km, with 870 meters crossing the canal of the port of Santos, the largest in Latin America. The tunnel will have three lanes of traffic in each direction, one of which will be dedicated to Light Rail Vehicles (LRV), as well as a cycle path and a pedestrian walkway, promoting sustainable transportation alternatives.
The project aims to solve long-standing mobility problems between Santos and Guarujá, which currently depend on ferries for the crossing, often resulting in long queues and waits. With the underwater tunnel, the crossing time will be reduced to just 1,5 minutes by car, saving around 50 minutes on the journey.
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Construction work on the first underwater tunnel in Latin America will create approximately 9 jobs
In addition to the direct benefits for mobility, the first underwater tunnel in Latin America will also have a major economic impact on the region. With the construction of the project, approximately 9 jobs will be created, both directly and indirectly. This means more opportunities for local workers, as well as a positive impact on the region's trade and industry.
The work is part of the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC), reinforcing Brazil’s commitment to improving its transportation infrastructure. This mega-investment in infrastructure not only modernizes the cities involved, but also puts the country on the map when it comes to innovation in large-scale construction.
Unprecedented technology and engineering
The construction of the underwater tunnel that will connect Santos to Guarujá involves advanced engineering technologies. Six prefabricated reinforced concrete modules will be used, which will be submerged to a minimum depth of 21 meters. These modules will be built in a dry dock and transported by float to the construction site, where they will be positioned on the bed of the canal.
This innovative technique ensures that naval traffic in the Port of Santos will not be interrupted during the works, a crucial aspect for maintaining the region’s logistical efficiency. The modules will be fitted together precisely and gradually, with constant safety checks to ensure the structural integrity of the tunnel.
Environmental benefits and sustainability
One of the most interesting aspects of the underwater tunnel is its positive impact on the environment. Reducing the use of ferries, currently the main form of crossing between Santos and Guarujá, will reduce carbon dioxide emissions, helping to preserve the environment. The inclusion of a cycle path and a pedestrian walkway will encourage the use of alternative and sustainable means of transport.
The project also stands out for the integration of an exclusive lane for the VLT, providing an efficient and ecological public transport option for residents and tourists who visit the region.
A mega investment of approximately R$5,8 billion
The total cost of building the underwater tunnel will be approximately R$5,8 billion, with the mega-investment being split equally between the federal government and the state of São Paulo. To ensure the economic viability of the project, a toll of R$12,30 is expected, equivalent to the current ferry fare. However, the tunnel will be free for pedestrians, encouraging sustainable travel.
With construction work scheduled to begin in the second half of 2024 and be completed in 2027, the submerged tunnel that will connect Santos to Guarujá will become a symbol of innovation, progress and sustainability for Brazil.
Submerged tunnel puts Brazil in the spotlight on the international scene of major engineering projects
Latin America's first underwater tunnel is more than an infrastructure work. It represents a step forward in the way Brazil deals with its mobility and transportation challenges. The Santos-Guarujá connection will bring immediate benefits to residents and tourists in the region, but will also serve as an example of how major investments can transform cities and economies.
With the jobs created, the positive impact on the logistics of the Port of Santos and the improvement in traffic conditions, the project will play a crucial role in regional development. In addition, the tunnel puts Brazil in the spotlight on the international scene of major engineering projects, showing that the country is prepared to face complex challenges and deliver innovative solutions.
