A Milestone in Underground Excavation
The Mayrit tunnel boring machine, one of the most modern of its kind, has made significant progress by completing the first 200 meters of excavation in its first month of operation. This impressive machine, which began its work at the end of March, is set to expand the Line 11 of the Madrid Metro, a project that promises to transform mobility in the Spanish capital.
The current route is heading towards the future Madrid Río station, located approximately 1,114 meters from the starting point in the Carabanchel district. The total length of the tunnel being constructed is 5,227 meters, which will allow for a more efficient connection between various key areas of Madrid.
The tunnel boring machine operates tirelessly, functioning 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This approach allows for a fast pace, with an excavation capacity ranging from 400 to 500 meters monthly. This performance greatly exceeds the traditional average for similar projects in the Madrid metro network.
As Mayrit approaches Madrid Río, a technical pause of approximately two weeks is expected to carry out thorough equipment checks before continuing towards the intermediate stations: Palos de la Frontera, Atocha, and finally, Conde de Casal.
This work is an integral part of the broader plan to expand Line 11, which includes a total of 6,626 meters and five new stations: Comillas and Madrid Río, as well as connections with Palos de la Frontera, Atocha, and Conde de Casal. So far, the works have surpassed 50% of the total progress expected.
Aside from the current progress with Mayrit, an initial section had already been completed using traditional methods between Plaza Elíptica and Comillas. With an estimated investment of over 740 million euros, this mega-project will not only significantly improve connectivity within the metropolitan system but also contribute to sustainable urban development by facilitating access to public transport.
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