Logistics: Gotthard Base Tunnel is opened
The world's longest rail tunnel, the Gotthard Base Tunnel, has been ceremoniously opened after 17 years of construction. On June 1 - one year earlier than originally planned - AlpTransit Gotthard Ltd. handed over the tunnel to SBB for operation.
At 57 kilometers, the Gotthard Base Tunnel (GBT) is currently the longest and also the deepest tunnel in the world; it runs up to 2,300 m under rock. The GBT has only minor inclines and no tight curves at a maximum altitude of 550 meters above sea level, which enables diverse use in freight traffic. The construction costs were CHF 12.2 billion.
Switzerland's largest construction project was opened on June 1, 2016 with an official act of state, followed by a festival for the population lasting several days. SBB will now initially start a trial operation lasting several months, and on December 11, 2016, the GBT will be put into operation according to schedule. Every day, 260 freight trains and 65 passenger trains will then travel through the tunnel. (ah)
