OREANDA-NEWS. June 06, 2011. A formal procedure took place in Sochi that anchored the construction of Tunnel # 7-bis on the stretch between Sochi and Adler. The stretch was built under the Tuapse-Adler railway reinforcement project, which envisaged provision of two-track pieces on eight runs, reported the press-centre of RZD.

"This facility is an essential part of Olympics-related construction projects. A bit longer than one kilometer, the tunnel will support the construction of a second railway line between Sochi and Matsesta. This section limits capacity of the entire stretch between Sochi and Adler", noted Russian Railways President Vladimir Yakunin during the formal opening event.

According to him, completion of tunnel # 7-bis and subsequently of tunnel # 6-bis will make it possible to provide a second station-to-station coverage and increase capacity on the Sochi-Adler stretch by almost three times, i.e. from 54 to 153 train pairs per day.

"Once the second railway line is complete in 2013, local community and visitors will benefit from reduced travel time: comfortable Lastochka electric trains will cover the distance between Sochi and Adler in only 15 minutes. Travel time to the airport will be limited to 20 minutes", added Vladimir Yakunin.

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To facilitate Winter Olympics preparation works Russian Railways is responsible, among other projects, for the modernization of railway line connecting Tuapse and Adler.

The Project will facilitate railway cargo delivery in 2010 through 2013 to support Olympic Games construction needs (44.1 M tons) and local community needs (20.5 M tons).

Construction costs have been estimated at RUR 17.8 BN. Based on the assessment update effective 1 May 2011 RUR 12.4 BN have been spent since the construction start date.

Construction of the two-track pieces on the aforementioned runs is unique in that it necessitates large-scale bank reinforcement efforts, including the construction of groins, walls and retaining facilities, gravel/pebble belts, noise screens in the resort area etc.