Koblenz
Horchheimer Tunnel
Koblenz, Germany / 08.2021 - 05.2023
On behalf of DB Netz AG, the joint venture comprising PORR, FELDHAUS Bergbau GmbH & Co. KG and Heinz Schnorpfeil Bau GmbH carried out the refurbishment of the Horchheim Tunnel in Koblenz. The scope of work included the dismantling and refurbishment of the tunnel structure, as well as the associated infrastructure works.
Facts & Figures
Company
PORR GmbH & Co. KGaA . Tunnel construction
Type
Tunneling
Runtime
08.2021 - 05.2023
Renovation of a historic railway tunnel in Koblenz
Renovation of a tunnel dating from 1902
The Horchheim Tunnel, approximately 582 metres long, was opened in 1902 and forms part of the single-track railway line between the Koblenz Pfaffendorf junction and the Koblenz Horchheimer Brücke junction. As part of the project, the tunnel structure was comprehensively refurbished. To this end, the tunnel was fitted with a new concrete floor to accommodate water seepage from the surrounding rock. In addition to the existing masonry, sections of the underlying rock also had to be excavated.
Renovation of tunnel portals and retaining structures
As part of the works, both tunnel portals as well as the southern retaining wall were demolished and rebuilt. These measures were carried out in conjunction with the adaptation and renovation of the tunnel structure, as well as the necessary work on the roof structure.
Tunnelling and infrastructure works
The scope of works comprised: The individual works were carried out as part of an overall project to refurbish the tunnel structure.
- Dismantling of existing tunnel components
- Construction of new tunnel structures
- Surface and subsurface drainage
- Underground cable works
- Cable laying works
- Restoration of the superstructure
- Construction of the track beds
- Associated civil engineering works
Watercourse, nature and species conservation
The project was accompanied by nature and species conservation measures. Where interference with existing habitats was necessary, appropriate compensation measures were implemented. Conservation measures for lizards and bats were put in place even before construction work began. In addition, further nature conservation requirements were integrated into the construction work.
Foundation for the continued operation of the railway line
The refurbishment of the tunnel structure, the drainage systems as well as the track and cable infrastructure has laid the groundwork for the continued operation of the railway line in the Horchheim Tunnel area. The works encompassed both tunnelling as well as the associated railway infrastructure.
