The TM COTU consortium, led by DEME Group and under the supervision of Lantis, succeeded in submerging the final section of this subway connection under the Scheldt River, culminating a phase of the Oosterweel Project.
An underwater engineering work in the Scheldt Tunnel
Each of the eight prefabricated elements of the tunnel, which is 160 meters long and weighs 60,000 tons, was installed with a tolerance of just 35 millimeters. The last one was installed between sections six and eight, closing a stage in the progress of this infrastructure.
The operation was conducted under tidal conditions, which required precise logistics and collaboration between civil engineering teams, marine crewsteams, marine crews, technicians and planners. This phase demonstrated the TM COTU consortium’s ability to successfully execute highly complex maneuvers.
The Scheldt Tunnel is part of the Oosterweel Project, designed to optimize traffic in Antwerp and strengthen accessibility to its port. It is scheduled to be partially open to cycling traffic in 2028 and fully open to road traffic in 2030.
Thousands of people witnessed the final dive from both banks of the river. This event reflects the public interest in the project and the impact it will have on daily mobility and regional logistical efficiency.
This project represents an investment in river infrastructure for Flanders, with long-term benefits for local and international traffic. The commitment of Lantis as client and DEME as executor consolidates both as a reference in subway connection projects and sustainable urban development.
Source and photo: DEME