Smart stamps issued in Kuala Lumpur

24 November 2011

The Government of Malaysia released stamps bearing graphics of TBMs, tunnel cross sections and the breakthrough on the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (Smart) in Kuala Lumpur. Chris Davis, managing director of transportation for project designer and consultant Mott MacDonald said, "The commemorative stamps demonstrate how important the Smart is to the people of Kuala Lumpur. Since its opening in May 2007 SMART has been alleviating traffic congestion and has been used to protect Kuala Lumpur from flooding at least 50 times.

“We are very proud of this project and we're delighted for it to be recognised in this very unique way."

The 13.2m-diameter Smart faced significant geological and technical risks. The spokesman said, “Intensive site investigation and ground improvement, meticulous attention to detail during specification of tunnel boring equipment, careful project management and close supervision ensured tunnel works were completed without major incident. The tunnel was constructed in just two years and for a small budget of GBP 300M (USD 470M).

“Six of the tunnel’s 9.8km are dedicated to flood relief, with the central 3km fulfilling the dual role. Traffic in this section is accommodated on two decks. Floods are able to flow through the bottom of the tunnel, beneath the lower road deck. Decks are protected from inundation by guillotine style gates. Road decks will be closed to traffic during extreme flood events.”