The Brenner Base Tunnel - a new link through the Alps

37 A 700-metre-long tunnel, called the Padaster tunnel, was built to reach the disposal site without having to pass through inhabited areas. To enable direct removal of excavated material to the disposal site during the main phases of construction, a 950-metre-long bulk tunnel was also excavated. Conveyors bring material directly from the excavation to the disposal site through this bulk tunnel. A large boulder barrier was erected upstream of the diversion tunnel and an intake structure was built approxi- mately 100 metres down the valley. This diverts the Padaster brook into the diversion tunnel. These two structures protect the disposal site from flooding and mudslides during the construction phase. They also protect the district of Siegreith (Steinach am Brenner) from natural disasters. A large sediment retention basin was built where the Padaster brook returns to the surface after passing through the underground diversion tunnel. This also provides effective protection against landslides and flooding, especially for the district of Siegreith. After completion of desposing the excavated material, the newly formed valley floor will be fully rejuvenated. A new, near-natural river course, pasture management, ecological compensation areas and a woodland path will be created. Aerial photograph of the Padaster valley.