Indiacon Civil

Structures Library

Tunnels

What it is

Underground passages for roads, rail, water or services.

How it works

The ground around the opening is supported until a permanent lining takes over, while drainage keeps water out.

Diagram: Indiacon original, not to scale.

Main components

Portals, excavation, primary support (bolts, shotcrete), lining, waterproofing, ventilation, escape routes.

Key codes

IS 15026, IRC SP 91. Cited by number only; get the text from BIS or the issuing body.

Notable projects

Atal Tunnel, Gotthard Base Tunnel (Switzerland), Channel Tunnel (UK–France), Fehmarnbelt (Denmark–Germany).

Videos

Last reviewed: 23 Oct 2026. Sources: official publications and cited standards, see sources and policy. Report an error: comment on the related video on YouTube.