Transforming the Şırnak–Van Corridor: 45 km Road, 12 Tunnels, Travel Time Reduced to 2 Hours

Şırnak–Van Road & Tunnel Project

45 km State Road with 12 tunnels (15 km) and 2 at-grade interchanges — Design & Consultancy for Limak Construction.

The Şırnak–Van Road & Tunnel Project is a major transportation infrastructure investment developed to strengthen regional connectivity, improve travel safety, and provide a more efficient corridor between Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia. The project is located along a strategically important route linking Şırnak and Van, passing through challenging mountainous terrain where long-term accessibility and road safety have historically been limited.

Designed as a modern state road corridor, the project aims to provide a safer and more comfortable alternative to the existing route by significantly reducing both travel distance and travel time. Upon completion, the corridor will shorten the Şırnak–Van route by approximately 160 km, reducing the overall distance to around 190 km. As a result, the expected travel time is projected to decrease from approximately 6 hours to 2 hours, offering substantial operational advantages for passenger transport, commercial logistics, and regional mobility.

Engineering Scope and Key Structures

The project includes the construction of a 45 km state road corridor, incorporating major civil works designed to ensure continuity, safety, and year-round operation in mountainous topography. Due to steep slopes, complex geological conditions, and the need for stable alignment geometry, the project includes 12 tunnels with a combined tunnel length of approximately 15 km.

These tunnels form the core of the project, enabling the road to cross high-relief terrain with improved gradient control, reduced curvature, and higher driving comfort. In addition to shortening the travel distance, the tunnel structures also enhance operational reliability by reducing exposure to severe weather conditions and minimizing risk zones along the alignment.

A key tunnel located at the entrance of the corridor on the Şırnak–Uludere section is under construction. Infrastructure works for this tunnel have been completed, and the tunnel will have a total length of 2,845 m, representing one of the major structures within the project.

In addition to tunnel works, the project includes 2 at-grade interchanges, supporting traffic distribution and local accessibility. The corridor is also supported by safety and operational infrastructure, including road safety elements designed to improve traffic management, visibility, and safe driving conditions along the route.

Strategic Value and Regional Benefits

Beyond the engineering scope, the Şırnak–Van Road & Tunnel Project is expected to deliver significant socio-economic benefits by improving access to remote areas and supporting the movement of people and goods. The corridor will provide more efficient links to key trade and logistics routes and improve connectivity toward Habur Border Gate, one of Turkey’s most active border crossings. By strengthening access to border trade corridors and regional networks, the project supports long-term development potential for the surrounding provinces.

The project is also expected to support tourism development by improving access to the natural landscapes and highland areas along the corridor. Improved road standards, reduced travel time, and increased safety will contribute to a more sustainable and accessible transport network for both residents and visitors.

Project Reference

45 km State Road with 12 tunnels (15 km total tunnel length) and 2 at-grade interchanges — Design & Consultancy Services for Limak Construction.