Babakaya Tunnel aims to meet irrigation needs across 235,057 hectares by conveying Silvan Dam water to the plains on the Tigris River's left bank.
Water and Environmental Projects
Babakaya Tunnel Project
Babakaya Tunnel Project
An irrigation tunnel carrying Silvan Dam water to farmland
Babakaya Tunnel Project
Babakaya Tunnel Project
Highlights
Location
Tigris left bank plains, Diyarbakır, connection to Silvan Dam
Client/Employer Information
DSİ (Devlet Su İşleri Genel Müdürlüğü)
Project Scale
Capacity to irrigate 235,057 hectares of farmland
Infrastructure Components
Twin tunnels: 7.00 m internal diameter, concrete-lined, circular cross-sectionLining system suitable for pressurised flow2 shafts, each 36.72 m deep1 gantry crane system
Function
Conveying Silvan Dam water to the region's irrigation areas
Key Feature
One of Türkiye's largest infrastructure investments expanding agricultural irrigation capacity
Beyond increasing agricultural output, the project is critical to social welfare, food security and sustainable development.
Architectural and Engineering Details
Technologies and Construction Innovations Used
Project Stages and Solutions
Construction Stages
01
Twin tube tunnel excavation, 7.00 m internal diameter
02
Concrete lining and pressure resistant segment production
03
Construction of two shafts 36.72 m deep
04
Installation of the gantry crane system
05
Integration of pressurized water gate systems
Solutions
Geological diversity required combined TBM and conventional excavation.
Concrete lining and insulation ensured watertightness and long term durability.
Phased implementation ensured safe, uninterrupted progress.
Sustainability
Excavated materials were controlled and used for filling and reuse.
Local labor and procurement supported the regional economy during construction.
Continuous environmental monitoring prioritized groundwater protection.
Durable concrete linings created sustainable irrigation infrastructure with low maintenance needs.
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