Russian President Vladimir Putin in the videoconference mode launched the movement of trains along the second Baikal tunnel on the Baikal-Amur Mainline.
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The construction workers and operating specialists took part in the launching ceremony of the movement. Transport Minister Vitaly Savelyev also took part in the videoconference.
The new tunnel crosses the Baikal ridge and connects two constituent entities of the Russian Federation: the western portal is located in the Irkutsk region, the eastern one - in the Republic of Buryatia.
“Today we are launching railway traffic along the second line of the Baikal Tunnel. Its creation is a great, undoubtedly, important achievement for our transport industry, and very important for the entire national economy, "the President of Russia emphasized. He also noted that the commissioning of the tunnel provides a significant increase in the throughput capacity of one of the key railway lines. In turn, this will open up new business opportunities, increase cargo transportation on the Eastern range in general, and realize the transit potential of Russia.
The President thanked the specialists who took part in the construction of the facility. “You have done a great, colossal work, solved complex technological problems, made a significant contribution to the modernization of BAM,†said Vladimir Putin. The head of state also recalled that on August 1, the country will celebrate a professional holiday - the Day of the Railwayman. “I sincerely congratulate everyone who works in the domestic railway complex on the upcoming celebration. Thanks to your hard, conscientious work, the reliability of transportation is ensured throughout our vast country, throughout the vast territory, promising development projects are being successfully implemented. Thank you very much for your devoted, responsible attitude to your work, â€the President of Russia noted.
Vitaly Savelyev suggested that the head of state reward representatives of Russian Railways and the builders of the Baikal tunnel for the work done. “Great job done in no time. This will allow us to increase the throughput of BAM, and such facilities decorate the country with dignity, â€the Minister said. The President of Russia instructed to work out the issue of awarding and submit proposals.
The construction of the Baikalsky tunnel began in 2014 as part of the project for the modernization and development of the BAM and Transsib, which is being implemented in accordance with the instructions of the President and the Government of Russia. The old single-track Baikal Tunnel, built in 1985, was one of the "narrowest" places on the BAM. The new section is double-track, which significantly increases the throughput of the haul.
As part of the construction under the ground in difficult geological conditions, 6682 meters were covered. The penetration rate reached 300 meters per month. The depth of the tunnel is 300 meters. The construction involved 1,500 people and more than 100 units of mining equipment, road construction machines and vehicles. ■