Peru is close to completing a key infrastructure project in the Cusco region, which will offer a new, efficient route to Machu Picchu.
This initiative includes Peru’s longest tunnel, stretching about 1.7 kilometers in the Santa Teresa district of La Convención province.
The China Railway Tunnel Group (CRTG) has performed over 1,500 blasting operations, bringing the project near completion.
The tunnel, which marked 65% completion upon recent inspection, is a vital development for the Cusco region, promising to boost economic growth.
Raúl Pérez Reyes, Minister of Transport and Communication, highlighted its importance in providing an alternative route to the Inca citadel.
The tunnel, 8 meters high and with two 12-meter-wide lanes, is expected to be operational by November.
In addition, it will serve residents of La Convención and Urubamba provinces and improve access to the Choquequirao archaeological park.
The project, including the tunnel, access roads, and road improvements, represents a 570 million Soles investment.
However, this project is more than an infrastructure development; it’s a step toward conserving Peru’s cultural heritage.
Tunneling Progress
Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been a major tourist attraction. Yet, its remote location has often made access challenging.
Certainly, this tunnel is part of Peru‘s efforts to develop infrastructure that supports tourism and balances historical preservation with modern development.
Historically, access to Machu Picchu was limited to train travel or trekking. The new tunnel offers a quicker alternative, potentially reducing travel time.
This is crucial as Machu Picchu faces overtourism and environmental concerns. Better infrastructure can help manage these challenges effectively.
However, the involvement of international firms like CRTG indicates global interest in Latin American infrastructure projects.
As countries like Peru develop their tourism infrastructure, balancing sustainable development with preservation is key.
The tunnel’s completion represents Peru’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure and addressing the challenges of managing heritage sites.
In Short, This development is a landmark achievement for Peru, reflecting its dedication to both progress and preservation.