Ollachea Tunnel wins a 2026 ITA Tunnelling Award

This international distinction, presented in Lisbon on 4 November by the International Tunnelling Association (ITA) recognises an infrastructure project that has overcome significant technical and geological challenges. SYSTRA Subterra contributed to the project by providing detailed design and technical assistance throughout construction.

This award recognises the joint efforts of INTERSUR Concesiones and all the professionals involved in the design and construction of the tunnel. For SYSTRA Subterra, Ollachea is a reference that demonstrates our ability to deliver engineering solutions and technical assistance for highly complex underground projects, contributing to safer mobility and better connections between regions.

José Miguel Galera, CEO, SYSTRA Subterra

Tailored engineering for an exceptional environment

SYSTRA Subterra supported INTERSUR Concesiones, the Peruvian concessionaire responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of this section of the Southern Interoceanic Highway, in developing the project, drawing on its expertise in tunnel and underground engineering. Its involvement encompassed the development of design solutions, as well as construction monitoring and technical assistance, helping to address particularly complex ground conditions.

One of the main challenges was the presence of thermal waters along the alignment, due to a thermal dome where temperatures exceed 92°C. The tunnel alignment was designed to strike a balance between geotechnical constraints and the presence of this thermal dome. As a result, the tunnel passes through a section approximately 400 metres long where water temperatures exceed 70°C. This exceptional feature earned it the Guinness World Record for the highest-temperature geothermal waters traversed by a vehicular tunnel, with a recorded temperature of 71.2°C.

These conditions required tailored solutions for managing atmospheric conditions inside the tunnel, the use of explosives, water management, as well as waterproofing and thermal insulation of the permanent lining.

SYSTRA Subterra’s studies and design work drew on a wide range of disciplines, including geology, geotechnics, hydrogeology, alignment design, structures, drainage, pavements, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems, ventilation and signage, reflecting a holistic approach to the infrastructure.

Strategic infrastructure for southern Peru

Ollachea Tunnel forms part of Section 4 of the Southern Interoceanic Highway, between Puente Inambari and Azángaro, in Carabaya Province. The project extends over 1,024 metres, including 906 metres of tunnel, with the remaining length comprising the access sections.

The infrastructure features automated LED lighting, mechanical ventilation, fire and gas detection systems, CCTV, public address systems and evacuation signage. These systems complement the civil engineering works to meet the safety and operational requirements of this key corridor for regional connectivity. The tunnel also features Peru’s first tunnel control centre located outside an urban area.