The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has announced the completion of a comprehensive maintenance study on the Shindagha Tunnel, in association with Socotech International, a global company that specializes in the construction of dams, bridges and tunnels, which shows that the tunnel is in excellent condition.
A team of specialized engineers from the RTA and Socotech International conducted an in-depth study of the internal walls and structure of the tunnel for cracks and other defects. Samples of the concrete from the tunnel were sent to UK for important tests and inspections, and results proved that the concrete is in good condition, confirming that the tunnel was still strong and safe.
Maitha Bin Adi, CEO Roads Department, RTA said, "Studies proved that the steel used in the walls is still in very good state. The maintenance work done in 1985, after a decade of the tunnel's construction, involved coating the walls with special materials and paints to prevent the oxidization of iron, which has contributed to the excellent condition of the structure till date. The condition of the tunnel, three decades after it was built, is ample proof of the quality of the construction and maintenance works.
"Under the guidance and instructions of H.E Mattar Al Tayer, CEO and Chairman of the RTA board, we are committed to carry out such periodic maintenance works on roads, tunnels and bridges in the Emirate. We plan to conduct a maintenance study on Shindagha tunnel once in three years with the expertise of global partners," she concluded.
