Major tunnel construction projects for Buenos Aires commuter railways

by

CONSTRUCTION has begun in the Argentine capital for new cross-city railways connecting previously isolated parts of the system.

The network is around 900km, making it the biggest commuter rail system in South America, serving many suburban towns as well as the city itself.

When complete a cross-shaped network of cross-city tunnels will connect six of the seven terminus stations enabling through operation from one side of the city to another.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.
Ferrovías EMD G22CU loco No. E704 near Munro station with a service to Retiro Belgrano Norte on September 2, 2011. KEITH FENDER

A central interchange station named Obelisco (Obelisk) – underneath the city’s main ‘9th of July’ square, with its famous monument – will enable connection between the two RER Red de Expresos Regionales lines and four metro (Subte) lines.

Initially, a north-south cross-city tunnel for 1,676mm-gauge services is planned, connecting termini from Retiro to Plaza Constitución with an intermediate station at Obelisco.

Construction of this will be followed by a west-east tunnel from the Once terminus of the Sarmiento route to the Correo Central (former main post office now a major exhibition and cultural centre).

Article continues below…
Advert

Finally, a second Retiro to Plaza Constitución tunnel is planned, parallel to the 1,676mm-gauge one, for the metre-gauge services of the former Belgrano Railway.

Read more in the March issue of The RM – on sale now!


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author