World’s largest, 4,000-ton rail tunneling machine sets continuous excavation record

China has completed the under-river section of the Chongtai Yangtze River Tunnel with the giant Linghang shield TBM.

The machine excavated 11.325 kilometers continuously beneath the Yangtze River, setting a record for its class.

The tunnel will shorten travel between Chongming Island and Shanghai Baoshan Station.

The project highlights China’s ability to build large-diameter underwater rail tunnels for future high-speed rail lines.