The Director General of the company stated, “Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in maritime infrastructure, as the first section of the immersed tunnel beneath Khor Al-Zubair Channel has been successfully installed, serving as a crucial step towards connecting Al Faw Grand Port to the underwater transport network.”
He explained that “The installed section is characterized by a length of 126 meters and a weight of 45,000 tons. It constitutes a vital component in the construction of this critical tunnel that will link Al Faw Grand Port with Um Qasr. This development is expected to significantly facilitate maritime navigation in Iraq,” emphasizing that “This tunnel is the first of its kind in the Middle East.”
He added, “The work has been carried out by specialized international companies, with the Dutch company and the Italian consultant participating in this complex operation, in addition to the Korean company (Daewoo), which is executing Al Faw Grand Port project, under the supervision of Al Faw Grand Port Authority affiliated with the General Company for Ports of Iraq.”
He clarified that “The section was lifted from the manufacturing dock in a precise operation, then guided to a waiting area where it was equipped with buoys and GPS devices and securely fastened. Subsequently, it was smoothly towed to the tunnel’s pathway and carefully lowered to be connected with the fixed section,” noting that “The operation was 100% successful and in accordance with the planned procedures.”
He further stated, “The specialized teams are prepared to transfer the second section from the manufacturing dock to the tunnel’s pathway. This process will be repeated ten times until the tunnel is fully completed,” pointing out that “work is ongoing at the entrances and exits of the immersed tunnel, reflecting the rapid progress and readiness in completing this project.”
Al Faw Grand Port project represents a strategic step to enhance the competitiveness of Iraq’s ports. Upon completion, the port is expected to become one of the largest ports in the region.
