The 19.8 km-long Kiora tunnel for the Yin Hong Ji Shi water diversion project in Tabai County of Shanxi Province comprises 8.7 km drill/blast and 11.1 km TBM drive. The drill/blast section has been completed, but the double shield TBM became trapped in poor ground after driving just 6 km. In May, 2011 Seli signed a EUR20 million contract for design and enlargement of the tunnel to enable TBM recovery and modification; TBM and back-up modification/refurbishment to cope with hydro-geological difficulties; and TBM excavation of the remaining 5.1 km.

To date, Seli has excavated around the machine by conventional methods and has begun disassembly for refurbishment and modification. Heavy components for TBM modification will be carried by hoists suspended to the rib structure. Seli will restart TBM operations in June, 2012. Visit www.selitunnel.com. 14/12.