The Sta Luċija tunnels project has reached a breakthrough, with Infrastructure Malta workers having broken through the last metres of rock to link both ends.

Rather than being bored, the 90-metre tunnel is being cut from the surface and will then be roofed

It will run under the Santa Luċija roundabout linking Addolorata Hill with Tal-Barrani Road and easing the flow of traffic from the new Marsa junction towards the southern part of the island.

The old roundabout above the tunnel will be rebuilt to a new design that will facilitate access to Santa Luċija, Paola and Tarxien

Most work on the excavation and formation of 130-metre approach ramps to the tunnels on either side of the roundabout has been completed.

398 precast reinforced concrete panels are being used to form the tunnel walls.