An exploratory gallery for Luka tunnel on the D3 motorway

Abstract

The Luka tunnel is designed for the 0302 Jílové – Hostěradice section of the D3 motorway. This has a length of 1843m and will consist of two tunnel tubes of T 9.5/100 category. It is proposed that a 1354m long exploratory gallery be put in place in the left-hand tunnel tube. It will be used for detailed geotechnical exploration in a rock environment that has been negatively affected by past mining activities. The exploratory gallery will be constructed using a procedure that will limit the possible stability risks during its excavation. The knowledge gained from the excavation of the gallery and from the comprehensive survey operations undertaken will serve as the essential basis for the reliable design and safe construction of the tunnel tubes. The current state of the D3 motorway differs greatly along its individual sections. The more southerly located sections D 305/II (Nová Hospoda) to D 309 (Úsilné) are in operation. Section D 310 Úsilné – Hodějovice with the České Budějovice bypass is under construction, and the construction in the direction of Austria has not yet proceeded [1]. The situation is very disappointing particularly in the Central Bohemian region, even though exploration operations are underway to a limited extent in sections D 301 to D 305/I, as construction has not yet started due to problems with obstructions or objections by activists of various types. The problem is that it is demonstrable that the existing road I/3, which is also part of the main international road route E55, is already completely inadequate both in terms of capacity and in terms of its alignment running through several developed residential complexes. After the completion of the D3 motorway, this road will be usable as an alternative diversion route without major modifications in the event of a required closure of the motorway.