Countries have invested heavily in tunnel infrastructure, enabling efficient transportation routes that connect cities and enhance trade. This article showcases some of the most notable tunnels worldwide, highlighting their significance in modern engineering and transportation.
1. Gotthard Base Tunnel
Regular rail service began in December 2016 through Switzerland’s Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world’s longest and deepest tunnel. Length: 57 kilometers.
2. Channel Tunnel
The Channel Tunnel fundamentally changed the geography of Europe and helped to reinforce high-speed rail as a viable alternative to short-haul flights. Length: 50 kilometers
3. Aqua-Line, Tokyo Bay
Tokyo Bay’s Aqua-Line comprises a 4.4-kilometer bridge and a 9.6-kilometer underwater tunnel. Length: 14 kilometers total
4. Eisenhower Tunnel, Colorado
Colorado’s Eisenhower tunnel is one of the world’s highest road tunnels, located 3,401 meters above sea level. Length: 2.72 kilometers
5. Spiralen Tunnel, Norway
The dramatic Spiralen road tunnel in Norway leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Drammen. Length: 1.65 kilometers
6. SMART Tunnel, Malaysia
This 9.7-kilometer SMART tunnel, the longest in Malaysia, was built to solve the problem of flash flooding in Kuala Lumpur. Length: 9.7 kilometers
7. Seikan Tunnel, Japan
The 53-kilometer Seikan is a railway tunnel in Japan with a 23-kilometer stretch running underwater. Length: 53 kilometers
8. Shanghai’s Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Shanghai’s Bund Sightseeing Tunnel features psychedelic lights and trippy audio-visual effects. Length: 646.7 meters
9. Lærdal Tunnel, Norway
The world’s longest road tunnel, Norway’s Lærdal Tunnel, has features designed to alleviate claustrophobia. Length: 24.5 kilometers
Conclusion
These remarkable tunnels illustrate the advancements in engineering and infrastructure that contribute to global connectivity. From facilitating trade to transforming travel, tunnels offer essential links in our transportation networks.
