In the bustling heart of Tashkent, a groundbreaking approach to shield tunneling is redefining the standards of accuracy and safety in underground construction. Led by S. Sayyidqosimov from Tashkent State Technical University named after Islam Karimov, a recent study published in the ‘Annals of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’ (translated from the original Russian) is making waves in the construction industry, with significant implications for the energy sector.
The second stage of the Tashkent Metro’s construction has become a testing ground for innovative surveying techniques. Sayyidqosimov and his team have integrated high-precision electronic total stations, laser scanning, and automated observation stations to create a robust framework for mine surveying. “The integration of satellite and inertial technologies has allowed us to achieve unprecedented levels of precision,” Sayyidqosimov explains. This technological fusion is not just about enhancing accuracy; it’s about ensuring the safety of construction operations in real-time.
The study emphasizes the critical role of continuous deformation monitoring. By installing observation marks and conducting regular leveling and displacement analysis, construction teams can promptly respond to potential threats. This proactive approach is particularly valuable in dense urban environments, where the margin for error is minimal.
The practical application of these methods has yielded impressive results. In specific sections of the metro’s second stage, the mutual docking of tunnels was performed with minimal deviations. “Thanks to the timely correction of total station data, we achieved minimal deviations when entering the disassembly chamber,” Sayyidqosimov notes. This level of precision is a testament to the effectiveness of combining classical observation methods with cutting-edge geodetic technologies.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As urban areas continue to expand, the need for underground infrastructure—such as tunnels for energy distribution and storage—grows. The methods pioneered in Tashkent offer a blueprint for constructing these critical structures with greater accuracy and safety. This could lead to more efficient energy distribution networks, reduced construction costs, and minimized disruptions to urban life.
The study’s findings are not just theoretically significant; they are already proving their worth in real-world applications. The experience gained in Tashkent demonstrates the potential of these technologies to enhance the accuracy and reliability of underground construction. As Sayyidqosimov concludes, “The integrated use of modern technologies and optimization of measurement techniques can significantly improve surveying accuracy.”
This research is a beacon for future developments in the field. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of advanced surveying techniques will likely become standard practice. The lessons learned in Tashkent could shape the future of underground construction, making it safer, more efficient, and more precise. For professionals in the energy sector, this is not just a story about tunnels and metros; it’s a story about the future of urban infrastructure and the technologies that will build it.