New Semmering Base Tunnel

Project objectives

The new Semmering base tunnel is an important section within a highspeed route of the Trans-European Network (TEN).

Project description

The Semmering Base Tunnel New is one of the most important largescale infrastructure projects in Europe. The twin-tube railway tunnel will relieve the existing mountain route from Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag and, thanks to its low gradient, will be fully accessible even for heavy freight trains. Challenges include water-bearing sections with high inflows and pressures in the carbonate rock areas of Otterstock and Grassberg (300 l/s, 300 m water head) and squeezing fault zones, such as the Grassberg- Schlagl fault system.

Project data

• Total length: approx. 27.3 km
• Two single track tubes, crosscut distance approx. max. 500m
• Max. overburden: 870 m
• Emergency station with ventilation, 2 construction shafts (over 410 m deep, Ø approx. 12 m & 10 m)
• Temporary access Göstritz (approx. 1,040 m)
• 2 temporary shafts Göstritz (2 x approx. 250 m, Ø approx. 7 m & 9 m)

Services

Tunnel design for the alignment selection process, construction permits, tender design and final design of the tunnel, emergency station and shafts and as-built drawings; geotechnical consultancy during construction