CGL completes 10th river crossing

The tunnel marks the 10th and final major river crossing for the 670km pipeline that will transport natural gas from north-east BC to the LNG Canada processing facility in Kitimat.

Subsurface conditions meant CGL reduced the length of the micro-tunnel by 28m so work is now starting on construction of the exit point.

Now tunnelling is completed, pipe will be pulled through the concrete tunnel and connected with the rest of the project route on both sides of the Morice River. Hydrotesting will then be carried out.

CGL said micro-tunnelling was chosen for the Morice River crossing because it was the safest method with low environmental impact.

“Micro-tunneling was selected as the safest method to cross the Morice River following extensive engagement with indigenous communities, along with comprehensive environmental and technical assessments. This innovative technology allowed for tunnelling under the river, with limited environmental, economic or social disturbances,” the company said.

The 670km pipeline will deliver 2.1 billion ft2 per day (bcf/d) of natural gas, with the potential to deliver up to 5 bcf/d through additional compression along the route.