The General Company for Ports of Iraq has announced significant progress in the immersed tunnel project—one of the most strategic infrastructure undertakings at Al Faw Grand Port. The project has entered an advanced execution phase marked by the flotation of the sixth concrete segment within the manufacturing basin, in preparation for its precise installation beneath the navigational channel of Khor Al-Zubair. This segment, alongside the fifth, will form the passageway for maritime traffic.
Dr. Eng. Farhan Al-Fartousi, Director General of the company, stated “The immersed tunnel project, a cornerstone of strategic development at Al Faw Grand Port, has reached an advanced implementation stage. This is evidenced by the flotation of the sixth concrete segment in the manufacturing basin, in preparation for its accurate placement beneath the Khor Al-Zubair channel, where it will align with the fifth segment to form the vessel passage.”
He emphasized that “This phase represents a pivotal milestone within the project’s timeline, given the complexity of the engineering operations involved. These include the discharge of internal ballast tanks and calibration of floating blocks following sediment removal from the basin, ensuring absolute precision during installation.”
He added that “Once floated, the segment will be transferred to the logistical dock for technical outfitting, including the installation of spatial towers, GPS positioning systems, and an integrated logistical framework to ensure its underwater placement follows the designated path with high accuracy.”
He further noted “Positioning this segment within the Khor Al-Zubair channel will contribute approximately 945 meters of tunnel length, measured from the landward approach to the end of the sixth segment. This marks tangible progress and strengthens the prospects of reaching the final closure stages within the scheduled timeframe.”
The immersed tunnel at Al Faw Grand Port is considered a strategic economic project for Iraq and the broader region. It supports maritime and commercial navigation, enhances the port’s logistical capabilities, and reinforces Iraq’s regional standing within global maritime transport chains. Moreover, it stimulates economic development linked to port and marine services and establishes a critical infrastructure foundation for long-term growth in the maritime and foreign trade sectors.
