High and Deep Andean Tunnel Tests a Contractor's Mettle
By C.J. Schexnayder

Brazilian construction giant Construtora Norberto Odebrecht S.A. has taken on a difficult construction challenge - drilling an 11.2-kilometer tunnel through a mountain more than 2,400 meters high in Central Ecuador. A pair roof collapses late last year trapped an $11.2-million tunnel boring machine requiring several months to rescue and get the project back on track.
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The discharge tunnel at the interconnection chamber between the Agoyan power plant and the upstream portion of the headrace tunnel. This opening is the primary point of access for excavation of the connecting tunnels and chambers beneath the Agoyan plant. (Photo by C.J. Schexnayder)
 
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