Argentina and Chile through EBITAN have launched a Request for expressions of Interest to build the Agua Negra tunnel connecting both countries. Those interested in the project will have to submit their proposals before 4th October 2013.

The project is expected to cost in excess of US$850 million. The contract for the work is expected to be agreed in 2014.

The project:

Two parallel tunnels, one for each direction: downward from Argentina to Chile and Chile to the Argentina, 13.9 km in length. The Argentine entrance will be on altitude of 4,085 meters, and the Chilean entrance is on3,620 meters , giving the tunnel an average gradient of 3.37%.

El Paso de Agua Negra is one of the 13 projected roads that Chile and Argentina have agreed to receive preferential budgetary attention, for the purpose of improvement.

It is strategically located within the central belt of both countries and was considered a high-priority investment, because it attracts traffic itself that does not compete with any other road.

Source: Agua Negra Tunnel