Cargo sous terrain begins implementation

In addition to concrete planning steps for the first section, which will open in 2031, Cargo sous terrain (CST) is creating the conditions for the nationwide network in collaboration with cities and cantons. In recent months, CST has strengthened the foundation for realization in eastern and western Switzerland, achieving initial milestones in the Zurich region.

With the positive parliamentary decision at the end of 2021, the funds from CST investors have become available for the construction approval phase. This phase includes the preparation of the necessary approval procedures in the cantons along the first section of the tunnel. In the cantons of Aargau, Solothurn, and Zurich, the planning procedures will begin at the end of 2022, which will form the basis for CST. In the current stage, CST is examining suitable hub locations along the first section from Härkingen to Zurich Airport. At all locations, CST is assessing traffic access and conducting geological investigations. The goal is to integrate gently into the landscape and populated areas. CST offers the opportunity to realize architectural landmarks and reduce surface traffic. In parallel with the planning of the first section, CST is working on the expansion to a nationwide network by 2045. In several cantons, CST has achieved important milestones in recent months.

Eastern Switzerland wants rapid CST connection

Together with the cantons of St. Gallen and Thurgau, CST has conducted a potential analysis that examined the feasibility of underground freight transport between Zurich and eastern Switzerland based on freight volumes. It has been shown that extending the network to St. Gallen is technically and economically promising. Based on the results, in-depth investigations are now being conducted at potential hub locations. The cantons of St. Gallen and Thurgau are pleased with the positive results and are striving for a rapid connection to the forward-looking system.

Promising potentials in Romandy

A feasibility study conducted in collaboration with the cantons of Vaud and Geneva also confirmed the economic viability of a connection to the CST overall network in Romandy. The partial relocation of road freight transport underground also brings significant ecological benefits around Lake Geneva. Overall, this results in an improvement in quality of life and public health in the region. As in eastern Switzerland, the cantons and CST will now conduct further studies on the CST connection and specify the advantages and practical feasibility.

Zurich: Traffic relief in the city and at the airport

With Zurich Airport AG (FZAG), which has been involved in CST since 2019, CST AG recently signed a “Memorandum of Understanding.” CST AG and FZAG intend to connect the airport with the first section. This will relieve access roads while simultaneously managing logistics flows at the airport. This will be implemented with a branch from the main tunnel. CST will provide the tunnel and vertical conveyors, while FZAG will construct the actual logistics terminal building.

In the city of Zurich, CST supports the municipal authorities in a pilot project for depositing and picking up packages. The “SalüBox” aims to consolidate the booming package delivery traffic and relieve residential neighborhoods from delivery traffic. It thus serves as a complement and alternative to the current milk box. Local businesses and retailers can also use the SalüBox to deposit goods. The city of Zurich will test the concept with CST as the implementation partner starting in autumn at four locations in the city area. This partnership is part of CST’s city logistics activities to reduce urban traffic and emissions even before the tunnel is operational, thereby enhancing the quality of life for all.

Photo: © Cargo sous terrain AG