Gotthard Base Tunnel: Test operation underway
Test operations in the Gotthard Base Tunnel have been running since October 1, 2015. According to AlpTransit Gotthard Ltd (ATG), the first test runs have been successfully completed. Around 5,000 test runs are planned by May 31, 2016; the trains will travel through the world's longest tunnel at speeds of up to 275 kilometers per hour. Test runs with freight trains will then take place from the end of February 2016.
According to ATG boss Renzo Simoni, AlpTransit Gotthard Ltd. as the constructor must put the interaction of all tunnel components through their paces during the eight-month test operation: "We must demonstrate the functionality and fulfillment of the safety requirements in the Gotthard Base Tunnel. Only in this way will we be able to hand over an operational tunnel to the federal government and SBB at the opening ceremonies on June 1, 2016." From June 2016, trial operation will take place under the management of SBB, before the tunnel is put into operation according to schedule in December 2016. (ah)
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