Review on Tunnel Construction Method and Environmental Impact

Abstract

unnel construction has become more common as the number of road construction projects in Malaysia has increased. The impacts on the environment and the safety of users are significant concerns during tunnel construction. This research aims to determine road tunnel construction technologies, environmental impacts, and best practices in road tunnel construction. This study was carried out by scoping the literature. The study starts with identifying the most relevant search keywords then examines the articles using quantitative and qualitative techniques. The four types of road tunnel construction discovered in the study are cut and cover, bore or mine tunneling, soft surface tunnelling, and hard rock tunnelling. Tunnels construction has significantly impact to the environment through various sources such as generation of construction waste material, sludge generation, wastewater generation, and noise and vibration. As a fundamental matter, one of the most important things to consider in any road tunnel construction project is a comprehensive examination of the suitability of the soil, surface, geology, and hydrology prior project development. Environmental impact assessment should be done to identify the environmental impact and appropriate mitigation measures. This study identifies five recommended practices for tunnel building that can be adopted sustainably. The first is a detailed investigation of soil, rock, and hydrological geology. It is to ensure the best techniques and approach to be implemented. The second, is an environmental impact assessment study need to be done before the project's implementation. The third is to choose the best available option for tunnel construction method by considering environmental impact and cost effective. The fourth is initiating stakeholder consultation to ensure people that will affected are informed. The fifth is continues monitoring to ensure the environmental impact is closely monitor before, during and after the tunnel construction.