Chile-Argentina tunnel project progress

Further progress is being made with the landmark Agua Negra Tunnel project that will connect Argentina and Chile. The new tunnel will run through the Andes mountain range, providing an improved highway link between the two nations, boosting trade and transport. The consortia pre-qualified for the tender process will be announced during November 2017.
October 20, 2017 Read time: 1 min

Further progress is being made with the landmark Agua Negra Tunnel project that will connect Argentina and Chile. The new tunnel will run through the Andes mountain range, providing an improved highway link between the two nations, boosting trade and transport. The consortia pre-qualified for the tender process will be announced during November 2017. Construction of the tunnel is expected to cost US$1.5 billion and could take up to 10 years to complete. Initial funding to help start some of the technical design and planning work on the project is being provided by the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) in the shape of two loans. One loan of $130 million will be for Argentina while the other, of $150 million, will be for Chile. The IADB has said it will source the necessary funding for the entire project. The intended design of twin tube tunnels calls for parallel drives measuring 13.9m in diameter. Around 72% of the 14km route run through Argentina, connecting San Juan in Argentina with Coquimbo in Chile.

Road Structures

Related Content

  • Chile-Argentina tunnel project moving ahead
    June 26, 2014
    So far 18 companies have been registered as eligible for tenders in the Agua Negra Tunnel project, which will link Argentina with Chile. The tender process is commencing for the project in the second half of 2014. The new tunnel will provide a better alternative to existing routes connecting the two countries through the Andes Mountain range at present. One of the existing routes is through a high mountain pass, which is frequently blocked due to poor weather while being unsuitable for heavy vehicles. The o
    Read More
  • Chilean infrastructure projects being planned
    November 20, 2014
    In Chile plans are well in hand for a series of major infrastructure projects, with the work likely to help boost the country’s economy. The Ministry of Public Works in Chile (MOP) has announced that it will speed up the process for key infrastructure construction projects. Those projects involving investments of around US$1.10 billion should be approved by 11th March 2015. The Ministry of Public Works has indicated that three private concession contracts have already been approved, including the dual-carri
    Read More
  • Argentina road and transport projects receiving funding
    April 3, 2017
    Argentina looks set to benefit from a series of major new transport projects. Loans worth up to US$650 million will help pay for a series of projects, including Argentina’s contribution to the Agua Negra Tunnel link with neighbouring Chile. The loans will be organised by the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB). A further loan of $156 million to road concession company AUSA will help pay for transport projects in Buenos Aires, including the construction of the Lacarra Bridge to connect with Lanus and upgr
    Read More
  • Chile-Argentina tunnelling projects planned
    April 7, 2021
    New tunnelling projects will link Chile and Argentina.
    Read More

Highlighted Content