Message from the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Iranian Tunneling Association

A Long History of Tunneling in Iran
Tunneling in Iran boasts a long and rich history. The world's longest Qanat systems, dating back three thousand years, were dug in Iran's central desert to bring water from deep underground to the surface for development. Shelters and underground corridors, built centuries ago in the oldest castles along the Silk Road, served to protect the lives and property of Iranians. These structures, along with other underground architectures carved from stone and earth, demonstrate the ingenuity of past civilizations in creating safe and beautiful spaces that utilized the earth's natural stability and warmth.

From Ancient Routes to Modern Infrastructure
The art of tunneling has also yielded practical benefits, such as the Mianeh to Tabriz road tunnel, which serves as a vital passage for tourists. With the advent of the automobile, Iranian workers, wielding axes and hammers, constructed tunnels for trains and cars through the Alborz and Zagros Mountain ranges. These early tunnels, like those at Kandavan, Pole-sefid, and Dorud to Andimeshk, stand as testaments to the perseverance and skill of Iran's "underground civilization."

Post-Revolution Advancements
Following the Islamic Revolution, the development of large-scale infrastructure projects led to significant advancements in tunneling technology in Iran. Construction of underground power plants, expansive highway tunnels through cities and mountains, and subway systems beneath urban centers all exemplify the nation's expertise in subterranean engineering. Over the past three decades, the introduction of mechanized tunneling has further revolutionized tunnel construction, enabling the safe and stable passage of subway tunnels beneath cityscapes and the rapid construction of water conveyance tunnels connecting different regions.

The Iranian Tunneling Association: A Commitment to Progress
The Iranian Tunneling Association (IRTA) was founded in 1996 through the collective efforts of tunnel project experts from across the country. As a scientific association under the supervision and support of the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology's scientific association and technical and engineering subgroup, IRTA builds upon Iran's rich tunneling history. Its mission is to promote knowledge and technology advancements in the design, construction, and operation of transportation tunnels, water conveyance and power supply tunnels, mining tunnels, and various underground facilities.

IRTA's Core Values
IRTA's core commitment is to guide and propel the tunneling industry towards enhanced quality, safety, health, speed, and environmental sustainability. It fosters a forum for exchanging experiences, ideas, and innovative tunneling initiatives.

A Legacy of Achievement and Collaboration
During its tenure, IRTA has organized twelve national conferences, two regional and international conferences, and some of the country's largest and most successful tunneling construction exhibitions. These efforts aim to attract more members to this non-governmental organization and contribute to the nation's development goals.

Global Collaboration
By showcasing the achievements of Iranian tunneling at the international level and maintaining a close relationship with the International Tunneling Association (ITA), IRTA fosters the continuous exchange and advancement of tunneling knowledge and technologies.

An Invitation to Collaboration
The Iranian Tunneling Association (IRTA) proudly invites all experts, specialists, managers, builders, and stakeholders in this field to join forces and collaborate in the continued development and excellence of this ancient art. IRTA welcomes all offers, domestic and international, aimed at achieving these shared goals.

President of the Board of Directors