"High-Risk" Transatlantic Tunnel Proposal Raises Concerns
The ambitious plan to build a $20 trillion "Transatlantic Tunnel" connecting the United States and the United Kingdom by rail has been branded as a "high-risk" project by megaprojects expert Professor Bent Flyvbjerg.
The concept of a transatlantic tunnel has been discussed for decades, but recent breakthroughs in vacuum technology have made it more viable. The proposed tunnel would span over 3,000 kilometers from New York City to London, with potential environmental benefits from reduced transatlantic flights.
Breakthroughs in vacuum tube technology have indicated that high-speed trains may soon be possible, with speeds of up to 5,000 mph theoretically making the journey between New York and London take around 54 minutes.
However, not everyone is convinced of the feasibility of the project. Flyvbjerg, an expert in megaprojects economics, believes that construction on the tunnel would be a dangerous and time-consuming process, citing a chance of completion below 100%. He is also skeptical about the speed of the trains justifying the costs of underwater construction.
Musk, the tech CEO, has suggested that he could build the tunnel for a fraction of estimated costs, sparking debate about government involvement in the project. Professor Flyvbjerg recommends that policymakers allow the private sector to take on the risks of construction costs, provided they carry the full risk of cost overrun.
For now, there is no official backing for a transatlantic tunnel, due to the high price tag and complicated construction processes. The feasibility of the project remains uncertain, but the debate will likely continue in the coming years.