HONG KONG MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY MODIFIED INITIAL SYSTEM: DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE DRIVEN TUNNELS AND THE IMMERSED TUBE

The first part of this paper describes the design requirements and construction methods adopted for the construction of the driven tunnels for the modified initial system of the mass transit railway. The ground conditions and methods adopted for driving the tunnels through a wide range of soil and rock types are reviewed. Particular problems encountered on the seven contracts involved are described, together with the solutions evolved by the individual contractors. The second part of the paper reviews the design principles and construction methods for the immersed tube across the harbour. The governing local conditions and other criteria are outlined and a description is given of the design and its special features. The construction method and sequence of construction are also described.(a)