TUNNEL USE AND CONSTRUCTION FOR URBAN TRANSPORT: CASE STUDY OF OMDURMAN - TUTI-BAHRI TUNNEL

Abstract

Several cities worldwide have rapidly developed during the last few years with increase in population, vehicle fleet and business activities thereby creating severe traffic congestion. However, due to increasing complexity and constraints of constructing surface infrastructure, they have resorted to underground space for transportation systems via tunnels and underpasses. Khartoum State was not different and similar situations have prompted the State to consider the introduction and promotion of using flyovers and underground tunnels with the associated design, construction and development of specifications. This study aims at over viewing the state of usage, design and construction of transportation tunnels. One of the main objectives of this thesis is propose an efficient tunnel layout to facilitate traffic flow and relieve traffic congestion on the main roads and bridges of Khartoum State. Two tunnel layouts have been suggested: A direct route Khartoum – Bahri and the other one Omdurman – Tuti – Bahri (OTB) via Tuti Island. The latter one was considered optimal track based on traffic and soil conditions. Traffic flow details related to the selected site and soil profile data for 50-m depth were acquired. The study continues by comparing O.T.B tunnel cost to other Khartoum bridges cost.