An extreme-weather alternative to the Zhuhai Bridge came under construction Dec 15 to keep traffic flowing between the east and west wings even during typhoons and heavy downpours. It also supports Zhuhai as a gateway hub with enhanced connectivity in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The tunnel is sited just 15 m (16 yd) south of the heavily traveled dual six-lane bridge and is to open by 2024. It runs 5 km (3 miles) from Zhuhai Avenue, under Guadingjiao Mt, and through the Modaomen Waterway to reconnect with the east-west thoroughfare.

The 4.48-km (2.8-mile) tunnel section will have dual six lanes with a designed speed of 80 kmph (50 mph), while dual six-lane auxiliary roads connecting Zhuhai Avenue will allow 50 kmph (31 mph).

Construction will not affect motorists on Zhuhai Avenue in the near term, but may impact traffic in surrounding areas of Nanping later on, according to Zhuhai Rail Transit.

Groundbreaking ceremony [Photo by Ye Qiuming / Guanhai App]