An impressive infrastructural and ecological project is currently underway in Switzerland: the construction of a second tube for the Gotthard Tunnel and the renaturation of the Reuss delta near Flüelen. Baars is playing an important role in the processing of millions of tons of tunnel excavation material with the use of split barges and pontoons.

Use of self-propelled split barges

Self-propelled split barges with a capacity of 335 m3 are being used to remove the excavated rock from the Gotthard Tunnel. Firstly, Split barge B308 will be used for 65 weeks after which the newly purchased B310 and B311 will continue the work. Both split barges are also equipped with propulsion and have an extended design, making them ideally suited for this large-scale project.

Seeschüttung in Lake Lucerne

The excavated material is transported via a logistics chain to the industrial port of Flüelen. From there, the split barges transport thousands of tons of rock to the Schanz and Allmeini dumping areas every day. This creates approximately seven hectares of new shallow water zones. This Seeschütting contributes to restoring the ecological balance and returns nature to the situation at the beginning of the last century. For more information look at following link:  https://www.seeschuettung.ch/seeschuettungen-neu/

Modular pontoon for precision work

In addition to the split barges, Baars also supplied a modular U-shaped pontoon. This pontoon marks the exact location where the material can be dumped by the split barges. Thanks to this construction, the work is not only efficient but also accurate, an important aspect in hydraulic engineering where nature and technology must go hand in hand. Look at the photos above how the split hopper barges are sailing into the U-pontoon.

Transport from Sliedrecht to Switzerland

The transport of equipment from Sliedrecht to Switzerland was carried out through various channels and organized in collaboration with regular partners such as Wipfli Trnsportspezialisten, Ultrabag and Natco.

Contribution to infrastructure and nature

Between 2024 and 2030, a total of 4.9 million tons of rock will be processed. This will not only enable the construction of the second tube of the Gotthard Tunnel, but also enhance biodiversity in the Urner Reuss Delta. Baars is extremely proud to be able to contribute to this unique project, which combines infrastructure and nature development, with its fleet of split barges and modular pontoons.

Do you have a hydraulic engineering project that requires customization? Contact Baars and we will be happy to think along with you and work with you to find the best solution.