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Channel Tunnel

TLDR: The Channel Tunnel, also known as the Chunnel, is an underwater railway tunnel that connects England and France. It is the only fixed link between the two countries and has the longest underwater section of any tunnel in the world. The tunnel carries high-speed trains, freight trains, and vehicles, making it a vital transportation route between the UK and Europe.

The Channel Tunnel, or Chunnel for short, is a 50.46-kilometer (31.35 mi) railway tunnel that runs under the English Channel, connecting Folkestone in England with Coquelles in France. It is the only fixed link between the island of Great Britain and the European mainland. The tunnel is owned and operated by a company called Getlink.

The construction of the Channel Tunnel began in 1988 and was completed in 1994. It was a massive engineering project that involved digging through chalk marl, a type of rock, under the sea bed. The tunnel consists of two rail tunnels and a service tunnel in between. The rail tunnels are used for high-speed passenger trains, freight trains, and vehicle shuttle trains.

The Channel Tunnel has the longest underwater section of any tunnel in the world, spanning 37.9 kilometers (23.5 mi). At its lowest point, it is 75 meters (246 ft) deep below the sea bed and 115 meters (377 ft) below sea level. The tunnel is also equipped with safety measures, such as fire safety systems and cross-passages for emergency evacuation.

Since its opening, the Channel Tunnel has been an important transportation route between the UK and Europe. It carries high-speed Eurostar passenger trains, which can travel at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), as well as freight trains and vehicle shuttle trains. The tunnel has significantly reduced travel time between the two countries, with the journey from London to Paris taking just over two hours.

In addition to its transportation role, the Channel Tunnel has also become a symbol of cooperation and connection between the UK and France. It has been recognized as one of the modern wonders of the world and is a popular tourist attraction.

Overall, the Channel Tunnel is an impressive engineering feat that has revolutionized travel between the UK and Europe. It has brought people closer together and has had a significant impact on trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.