China’s Canal Tunnel Progress Bolsters Santos-Guarujá Project Hopes

A new tunnel, approximately one kilometer long and connecting the two banks of the canal dividing Guangzhou, China, is currently under construction. This project, similar in scope to the long-awaited Santos-Guarujá tunnel in Brazil, has garnered significant attention. The Santos-Guarujá tunnel aims to connect the two banks of the Port of Santos navigation channel, a project that has been in development for 97 years.

The Santos Port Authority (APS) recently visited the construction site in China. On Tuesday (06/04), APS President Anderson Pomini toured the dry dock where four massive concrete blocks, destined for the canal bed, are being manufactured. This visit underscored the feasibility of the Santos-Guarujá tunnel.

At the construction site, two large concrete structures, each 100 meters long, over nine meters high, and 30 meters wide, stand side by side, forming the entry and exit points of the tunnel. These colossal pieces are being sealed and prepared to be submerged in the canal once the gate is opened and towed by floating boats.

“The size of the concrete pieces and the applied technique was impressive. It was like seeing our plans for the Santos-Guarujá tunnel coming to life,” Pomini remarked, following his visit alongside engineers and workers.

Another completed module floats in the canal, awaiting its counterparts, as if to show the viability of each construction stage to the Port of Santos team. Once finished, the four modules of the Chinese tunnel, which will measure 430 meters when immersed, will be laid on the canal bed and covered with special materials.

This tunnel in Guangzhou is one of many in China, constructed using similar designs and technology, showcasing the country’s advanced engineering capabilities. The site employs over 300 workers, with many taking photos with Pomini to commemorate the visit.

Pomini’s visit to China allowed him to witness firsthand the intricate details of tunnel construction, insights gained from over 20 Tunnel Commission meetings and three public hearings.

“The immense work progressing here at an accelerated pace proves that the Santos-Guarujá tunnel is achievable. This project will be a collaboration between the Ministry of Ports and Airports of the Federal Government, with participation from the Santos Port Authority and the Government of the State of São Paulo,” Pomini stated. He continues his mission in China, accompanied by Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and several ministers.

The Port of Santos is South America’s largest. The construction of the tunnel linking its two banks will ease traffic bottlenecks in the region and confer greater agility to cargo incoming from the country’s hinterland. The chart below illustrates container exports and exports between January 2021 and April 2024.

Santos Port Container Exports & Imports | Jan 2021 – Apr 2024 | TEUs

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

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