Accessing development sites on short hills by using underground excavation method

Abstract

Hong Kong is characterized by numerous short hills, typically around 150 meters in height. Traditionally, access to development sites on these hills has been facilitated through the construction of access roads with fill and cut slopes. This project aims to explore an alternative method: underground excavation and the construction of access tunnels. The primary goal of this project is to determine the feasibility and practicality of using access tunnels for reaching development sites on short hills in Hong Kong. This involves modelling and simulating both access tunnels and access roads to provide a comprehensive analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. By comparing these two methods, the project seeks to ascertain whether access tunnels offer a better solution for accessing development sites on short hills and whether the underground excavation method is viable in the context of Hong Kong’s unique geological and urban environment. After completing the simulations, both quantitative and qualitative comparisons were conducted. The construction of access roads has advantages over access tunnels in terms of cost and time efficiency. Despite some factors that may affect the accuracy of the analysis, it is believed that constructing access roads is more cost-effective and time-saving. However, constructing access tunnels presents a more contained and less disruptive option for the environment. Tunnels help preserve natural landscapes and reduce the need for extensive land alteration. This analysis will provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of each method, helping to determine the most suitable approach for future development projects in Hong Kong’s hilly terrains.