China's First Shield Tunneling Subway Project in South America Breaks Ground

A launch ceremony of the Santiago Metro Line 7 project was held in Santiago, capital of Chile, on Feb 17 local time, commencing construction of the first subway project in South America built by a Chinese enterprise using shield tunneling.

A ceremony is held on Feb 17 to commence construction of the Santiago Metro Line 7 project in Chile. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC) will shoulder construction of the line's section 1, its most important tender section, which will include construction of 6.662 kilometers of shield tunneling, seven island stations and some shafts. 

Tunnel boring machines (TBM) independently developed and produced by CRCC will be used in the construction, which is expected to promote usage of China-made equipment into the South American subway market.

A map of section 1 of Santiago Metro Line 7 in Chile [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

With a total investment of nearly $2.53 billion, the 27-kilometer line is a key livelihood project highly valued by the Chilean government.

It is expected to create 22,000 jobs during its six-year construction period, and, once operational, optimize Santiago's comprehensive transportation system, reduce air pollutant emissions and improve local living quality in affected areas.

A map of the Santiago Metro Line 7 in Chile [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

Designed with 19 stations, the subway connects seven districts of the city. Upon completion it will take passengers from one terminal to the other in only 43 minutes, which will provide fast and convenient travel service for over 1.36 million residents.

(Executive editor: Niu Yilin)