In 2021 the Västlänken project (West Link), a railway tunnel underneath the city centre of Gothenburg, has been presented in tunnel-issue 06/2021. Three years later, several sections of the tunnel structure have been handed over for fitting out and track laying, while other parts of the tunnel are in full production process. This article gives an update on the project status and focuses on selected technical solutions, such as concrete columns supporting large rock caverns and one of the first NATM-drives in Sweden.

This article from tunnel 5/24 examines two approaches to the design of tunnelling: the AJRM (Anisotropic Jointed Rock Model) and classification systems based on rock mass parameters. In the opinion of the authors, the application of these classification systems in sedimentary rocks is associated with major risks and does not provide sufficient reliability in complex geological conditions. It is suggested that the AJRM should be further developed instead of these systems. (Image: Ingenieurgemeinschaft A44, Bauabschnitt 4.2 und 5)

The work of the joint venture ARGE Tunnel Hauptbahn­hof (ATH) is progressing. The launch shaft for the tunnel boring machines in front of Donnersberg Bridge was completed in summer 2024, work on the RS 3 rescue shaft is in full swing and level E-4 at the main station is being excavated since October 2024