doi:10.3850/978-981-08-6396-8_P128

ABSTRACT

There is a growing demand for tunnel construction industry due to the need for efficient underground infrastructure systems. With the demand for more quality of life and economic development especially in urban areas new traffic and transport routes must be planned and constructed rapidly. It is also relevant in this respect to extend, maintain and modernize cities to maintain the functionality of supply and disposal systems. The best solution with respect to safety, profitability, environmental protection and quick implementation is displayed by the use of mechanized tunnelling technology to cope with the urgent need of project realization. In China and Singapore for example, the new subway systems are being constructed and put into operation rapidly and systematically. The paper highlights technical reliable and convincing solutions for mechanized tunnelling technology and shows the feasibility of tunnel visions and the infrastructure importance for the respective areas. One pioneering achievement and engineering breakthrough in tunnel construction is the new Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world’s longest rail tunnel through demanding rock massif.

Keywords: Tunnel visions, Infrastructure importance.

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