CONSTRUCTION OF SEVAN-DILIJAN TUNNEL TO BE OVER BY 2003 OCTOBER

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 19, ARMENPRESS:Tunnelers have completed drilling works in Sevan-Dilijan tunnel that will provide the shortest and safest connection between Armenian southern and northern regions. Construction of the tunnel that runs beneath the Dilijan mountain pass was launched yet in 1970-s, but in 1992 it was halted because of the lack of money. The US-based Lincy Fund has released $7 million for bringing it to completion. The construction of 2,257 meter long tunnel with 5.4 meter height and up to 9 meters width is expected to be over by 2003 October saving motorists from driving along dangerous mountain road. Engineers say the tunnel will operate for 100 years without major repairs.