Tunnel Vision Issue 2 - JGL corporate newsletter - Flipbook - Page 21
SHEIKH ISA BIN SALMAN MH18 INTERCHANGE, BAHRAIN
A benchmark in microtunnelling achievement, delivered under extreme
technical, logistical and stakeholder scrutiny.
The crossing forms part of the approach to the King
Fahd Causeway, the only land transport connection
between Bahrain and mainland Saudi Arabia, making
uninterrupted operation and absolute dimensional
accuracy critical to project success.
Despite a highly variable, non-cohesive ground
profile and zero tolerance for surface settlement, the
project was completed safely, accurately, and ahead of
expectations.
High-pro昀椀le location
The crossing was undertaken beneath a critical
highway interchange with exceptionally high traffic
volumes. Any surface movement or disruption would
have had severe safety and reputational consequences,
requiring zero measurable settlement throughout the
drive.
Complex ground conditions
The drive encountered a highly variable and
non-cohesive ground profile, including:
» Loose sand
» Gravelly sand
» Sand silt
» Sandy clay
The lack of cohesion and frequent material transitions
significantly increased the risk of face instability, slurry
loss, and settlement.
» Zero measurable surface settlement recorded
across the highway interchange.
» Peak production rates of 33m per day, achieved on
two separate occasions.
» Drive completed within the planned programme
despite challenging conditions.
This project is shortlisted for 2026
Pipeline Industries Guild award
Engineers before all else
josephgallagher.co.uk
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