Everything Everywhere Daily The Channel Tunnel
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May 22, 2025 Discover how the English Channel, once a protective moat, posed challenges for trade and travel. Hear about the ambitious dream that led to the creation of the Channel Tunnel in the 1990s. Explore the engineering marvel behind the tunnel, fraught with historical and political obstacles. Learn how the Eurostar transformed travel across Europe, offering speedy connections and cultural exchanges, even amidst challenges like fires and financial setbacks.
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English Channel as a Natural Moat
- The English Channel served as a natural moat protecting Great Britain from continental invasions for centuries. - Despite short distance, the channel hindered commerce and complicated transport of goods and people.
Early Channel Tunnel Challenges
- Early Channel Tunnel concepts emerged as early as 1802 but were technologically infeasible then. - Political worries and military fears repeatedly stopped construction attempts in the 19th century.
Engineering Marvel of TBMs
- The tunnel bores through a precise chalk marl geological layer, avoiding flooding and cave-ins. - Huge tunnel boring machines simultaneously cut and constructed tunnel lining with robotic segment erectors.