Core Points - The construction of the Mu Cheng Tunnel, a key project in the Chengdu to Emei Mountain Expressway, has officially commenced, marking the full-scale construction phase of the expressway [1] - The expressway is part of the national "14th Five-Year Plan" and spans 81.5 kilometers, connecting Chengdu, Meishan, and Leshan, with a total investment of approximately 18.8 billion yuan [1] - The project is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Chengdu and Emei Mountain City to just one hour upon completion [1] Project Details - The Mu Cheng Tunnel features a separated long tunnel design with lengths of 2985 meters and 2975 meters for the left and right tunnels, respectively, and a maximum depth of 176 meters [1] - The geological conditions of the tunnel are complex, primarily consisting of sandstone mixed with mudstone, necessitating high safety control measures during construction [1] - Innovative smart construction technologies are being applied to enhance the construction process [1] Timeline and Progress - The project received approval in April of this year, with the Meishan section starting construction in July, and the successful drilling of the first pile for the Xiangshuitan Bridge [1] - With the initiation of the Mu Cheng Tunnel construction, the Leshan section has also officially begun, entering a critical phase of main construction [1] - The entire project is expected to be completed within a three-year construction period [1]