The Guangzhou Haizhu Bay Tunnel project achieved a significant milestone with the successful connection of its shield section on Monday. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The Guangzhou Haizhu Bay Tunnel project, a critical infrastructure initiative, achieved a significant milestone with the successful connection of its shield section. This progress, announced by China Railway 14th Bureau, signifies a major step towards the tunnel's completion and operation by 2025.

Spearheaded by Guangzhou Communications Investment Group and constructed by China Railway 14th Bureau, the tunnel represents a significant investment of approximately 11.68 billion yuan ($1.67 billion). Spanning 4.35 kilometers and connecting Haizhu and Panyu districts, the project will enhance transportation efficiency within Guangzhou.

A key aspect of the tunnel is the 2,102-meter shield section, the first of its kind in Guangzhou to utilize ultra-large diameter technology. Two tunnel boring machines (TBMs) with a diameter of 15.07 meters were employed for its construction, marking a significant advancement in the city's tunneling capabilities.

This successful connection of the shield section paves the way for the project's timely completion and operational launch in 2025. The Haizhu Bay Tunnel is expected to contribute significantly to Guangzhou's urban development by improving traffic flow and connectivity between the city's districts.