China Completes Record-Breaking Underwater High-Speed Rail Tunnel Beneath the Yangtze River
China has achieved a significant engineering milestone with the completion of the underwater section of the Chongming-Taicang Yangtze River tunnel. Utilizing the domestically developed “Linghang” shield tunneling machine, engineers have successfully navigated an 11.18-kilometer stretch beneath the river, marking a critical step in the expansion of China’s high-speed rail network.
The project is designed to eliminate the need for high-speed trains to reduce their velocity when crossing the Yangtze, ensuring a seamless and efficient transit between Shanghai’s Chongming District and Taicang City in Jiangsu Province.
The “Linghang” Machine: A Feat of Engineering
The construction of this tunnel was made possible by the “Linghang” shield tunneling machine, which is recognized as the world’s largest-diameter high-speed-rail shield tunneling machine. This massive piece of equipment measures approximately 148 meters in length and weighs roughly 4,000 tons.
To manage the complexities of underwater excavation, the Linghang is equipped with the I-TBM system, the world’s most advanced intelligent control system. Since tunneling began on April 29, 2024, the machine has completed 23 months of safe operation to reach its destination in Taicang.
Breaking Global Records
The Chongming-Taicang Yangtze River tunnel isn’t just a local connection; it sets several global benchmarks for infrastructure. With a total length of 14,250 meters, it stands as the world’s longest high-speed rail shield tunnel in terms of single-head tunneling distance, covering 11,325 meters.
Other notable technical achievements include:
- Extreme Depth: The tunnel reaches depths of 89 meters beneath the Yangtze River.
- Scale: It features the largest cutterhead diameter of any similar project.
- Performance: It is designed for the highest operating speed among underwater river-crossing high-speed rail tunnels.
Strategic Importance and Connectivity
This tunnel is a vital component of the Shanghai-Chongqing-Chengdu High-Speed Railway. By linking the Chongming District and Taicang City, the project facilitates better regional integration and supports the broader development of a 2,100-km east-west rail corridor.
Once fully operational, the tunnel will allow high-speed trains to maintain their cruising speeds while crossing beneath the river, significantly reducing travel times and increasing the capacity of the rail corridor.
Key Project Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Tunnel Length | 14.25 kilometers |
| Underwater Section | 11.18 kilometers |
| Maximum Depth | 89 meters |
| Tunneling Machine | Linghang (148m long, 4,000 tons) |
| Primary Connection | Chongming District (Shanghai) to Taicang City (Jiangsu) |
Looking Forward
The successful landfall of the Linghang machine in Taicang marks the finish of the most challenging phase of the project. As construction moves toward the Shaft No. 2 maintenance station, the Chongming-Taicang tunnel serves as a blueprint for future high-standard, large-scale river-crossing projects. This advancement reinforces China’s capability to execute complex, world-class infrastructure that integrates key economic hubs through high-speed connectivity.
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