São Paulo Metro: Line 2 Green Tunnelling Milestone Achieved

São Paulo Metro Line 2 Green Extension: Cora Coralina Completes First Phase of Tunnelling

São Paulo, Brazil – June 5, 2024 – The expansion of the São Paulo Metro Line 2 Green has reached a significant milestone. The “Cora Coralina,” the largest tunnel boring machine (TBM) in Latin America, has successfully concluded the first phase of tunnelling works. This achievement marks a crucial step in a project designed to enhance the city’s public transport infrastructure and alleviate congestion in the densely populated eastern region. The completion of this initial phase, which involved the excavation of over 4.5 kilometers of alignment, underscores the project’s progress and sets the stage for the next phase of construction. The expansion project, a complex undertaking, promises significant improvements in mobility for the residents of São Paulo. The utilization of advanced engineering technology and the dedication of a large workforce are key factors that are driving the project forward.

*Chapter 1: Tunnelling Milestone Achieved*

The “Cora Coralina” TBM, a colossal machine crucial for the São Paulo Metro Line 2 Green expansion, has completed its initial tunnelling assignment. This first phase involved the excavation of 4.5 kilometers of alignment, and 3.7 kilometers of tunnel. The TBM’s journey began at the Rapadura Complex in November 2023, successfully reaching the Falchi Gianini ventilation shaft. This accomplishment signifies the connection of five construction shafts and four upcoming stations: Orfanato, Santa Clara, Anália Franco, and Vila Formosa. During this phase, the TBM removed 394,000 cubic meters of soil and installed 2,456 precast concrete rings. The sheer scale of this undertaking is a testament to the project’s ambition and the engineering prowess behind it. From Orfanato station alone, the TBM advanced 332 meters, excavated 35,000 cubic meters of soil, and placed 291 concrete rings.

*Chapter 2: The Cora Coralina TBM: A Technical Marvel*

The “Cora Coralina” TBM is a remarkable feat of engineering. Measuring 100 meters in length and weighing 2,500 tonnes, it boasts an 11.66-meter-diameter cutterhead. This makes it the largest TBM currently operating in Latin America. Its sophisticated design allows for the excavation and lining of up to 15 meters of tunnel per day. The machine is supported by a comprehensive backup system. This system includes conveyor belts for soil removal, ventilation systems, a hyperbaric chamber for safety, and advanced equipment for installing the precast concrete lining rings. The TBM’s operation requires a dedicated workforce of approximately 150 professionals working in three shifts. This includes engineers, technicians, mechanics, and electricians. Their combined efforts ensure continuous operation and the smooth progress of the tunnelling works.

*Chapter 3: Project Stages and Future Expansion*

The São Paulo Metro Line 2 Green expansion is split into two main stages. The first stage spans from Vila Prudente to Vila Formosa. This stage includes four new stations, with an anticipated opening in 2027. The second stage extends from Vila Formosa to Penha, adding an additional four stations: Santa Isabel, Guilherme Giorgi, Aricanduva, and Penha. This second phase is expected to commence service in 2028. The completion of the first phase marks a critical point in this expansion, allowing the “Cora Coralina” to be dismantled. The disassembly process is estimated to take up to 180 days. The TBM components will be lifted from the Falchi Gianini shaft. They will then be transported by truck to the Penha station site. Here, the TBM will begin the second phase, tunnelling in reverse towards the Rapadura Complex.

*Chapter 4: Boosting São Paulo’s Mobility: A Comprehensive Conclusion*

The completion of the first phase of tunnelling by the “Cora Coralina” represents a pivotal achievement for the São Paulo Metro Line 2 Green extension. The project, backed by BRL 15 billion (USD 2.6 billion) in funding from the Government of São Paulo, aims to add 8.3 kilometers of track and eight new stations between Vila Prudente and Penha. This enhancement will significantly improve mobility for the residents of São Paulo’s eastern region. The new line will interconnect with Lines 3-Red, 11-Coral, and the future Line 16-Violet, creating a comprehensive public transport network. The successful completion of the first phase demonstrates the capabilities of modern TBM technology, the dedication of the construction teams, and the strategic vision of the São Paulo metro system. The project’s careful planning, including the dismantling and relocation of the “Cora Coralina”, underscores the commitment to efficient project management. Once fully operational, the Line 2-Green extension is expected to serve approximately 1.2 million passengers daily, thereby greatly enhancing the quality of life and easing commuting challenges for the residents of São Paulo. The ongoing development of Line 2-Green extension provides valuable opportunities for the construction industry, creating both jobs and the development of advanced engineering skills. The project will ultimately make the city more accessible and contribute to a more sustainable urban environment.

*Companies Involved (Summary)*

The news article primarily focuses on the project undertaken by the Government of São Paulo. It highlights the crucial role of the tunnel boring machine, “Cora Coralina,” but does not specifically mention the construction companies involved. However, it can be assumed that a consortium of engineering and construction companies is responsible for executing the project. These companies likely specialize in large-scale infrastructure projects and possess expertise in tunnelling, civil engineering, and railway systems construction.