The facility will be 2.77 km long and will improve transport connectivity in the area

Significant progress has been made in the construction of the "Lozarevo" tunnel in the Lozarevo – Prilep section. The project is being carried out using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), which is effective for building underground structures.

The project, implemented by GBS Global Construction AD, the leading member of the "Rail North-South 2023" consortium, began in October of this year. So far, 110 meters of tunneling have been completed, with an estimated project duration of about three years.

The project includes the construction of a 1-km-long tunnel (1,000 meters), of which 210 meters will be built using the open-cut method, and 790 meters will be constructed using NATM. Additionally, the project involves the creation of a new 1.89-km-long evacuation gallery.

The tunnel construction activities are being carried out with close attention to technical requirements and safety measures. The NATM approach is adaptive and cost-effective, utilizing the natural properties of rocks and soil to ensure the stability of the tunnel. This method allows adjustments to be made in real time to accommodate varying geological conditions.

The method involves continuous monitoring of rock and soil deformations, with the collected data enabling timely adjustments to design solutions, ensuring safety and efficiency. Real-time monitoring and the swift implementation of reinforcement measures significantly reduce the risk of collapses and accidents, making it a preferred approach for tunnel construction under diverse geological and design conditions.

The facility is part of a strategic project to modernize railway infrastructure, aiming to improve transport connectivity and reduce travel time in the region. The tunnel in the Lozarevo – Prilep section is critical for enhancing the efficiency and safety of rail traffic. It is part of the larger Karnobat-Sindel railway project, which includes the construction of three tunnels: Lyulyakovo - Daskalovo, Lozarevo - Prilep, and Daskotina - Tarnak.