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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Shocrete segments, manufactured on-site, were used to shore the tunnel in precarious sections - such as beneath river crossings where water leakage was excessive. This assembly of the shocrete segments at the main work camp serves as an accurate cross section for the tunnel. (Photo by C.J. Schexnayder)
 
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