As part of ongoing developments in the construction of the immersed tunnel at Al Faw Grand Port, engineering teams commenced the flotation of the fourth concrete segment within the manufacturing basin on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Conducted under challenging environmental and weather conditions, this crucial step precedes the preparation and transfer of the segment to its designated location beneath the Khor Al-Zubair navigation channel.
Dr. Eng. Farhan Al-Fartousi, Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq, stated, “The immersed tunnel project, one of the most significant infrastructure initiatives at Al Faw Grand Port, has reached a pivotal stage with the flotation of the fourth segment. This complex engineering process entails draining the balance tanks within the concrete structure, enabling it to float within the water basin after being cleared of silt and sediment.”
He further explained that “following flotation, the segment will be towed to the logistics dock, where it will undergo technical preparation. This includes the installation of surveying towers, GPS systems, and logistical frameworks to ensure precise placement when transported to its final position beneath the navigation channel.”
Al-Fartousi noted that “aligning the fourth segment will extend the completed portion of the tunnel to 693 meters, spanning from the entrance to the end of this segment. This marks tangible progress, bringing the project significantly closer to completion.”
The immersed tunnel is a key strategic infrastructure component of Al Faw Grand Port and is the first of its kind to be constructed in the Middle East using this advanced technique and depth. Built using immersed concrete segments secured beneath the water’s surface, it establishes a vital transport corridor connecting the southern docks to the national highway network.
Despite formidable environmental challenges—including strong maritime currents, fluctuating weather conditions, and intricate logistical operations—each construction phase represents a remarkable engineering achievement, deserving recognition and documentation.
