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PIARC (World Road Association), founded in 1909 and comprising 125 member governments from all over the world, is the global forum for exchange of knowledge and experience on roads, road transport policies and practices. With consultative status to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, the Association is contributing to a stable and sustainable global development of the road and transport sector.

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Digitalisation of Road Tunnel Design and Management - Case Studies and Survey Report

As road tunnel operations become increasingly reliant on a wide range of equipment and rapidly expanding system interfaces, the role of digitalisation in tunnel design, operation, and management has grown significantly. Across the globe, stakeholders such as road authorities, tunnel operators, researchers, designers, contractors, and technology suppliers have embarked on distinct digital transformation journeys to address evolving operational needs.

This case study and survey report presents a diverse selection of international examples that illustrate different digital approaches to road tunnel design and management. The case studies are grouped into thematic categories to identify key trends, emerging technologies, and strategic directions. Each example includes an overview of the approach, its current stage of implementation, initial evaluation outcomes, identified benefits and challenges, and key lessons learned.

The report aims to assess and synthesise international expertise on digital transitions in the road tunnel domain. Digitalisation in this context goes beyond the development of digital twins; it also encompasses the integration of technologies to enhance data collection, improve system efficiency, and optimise user experience, for example through innovations such as pacemaker lighting.

In addition, the report includes insights from a stakeholder survey conducted by the working group, which highlights prevailing practices and perspectives on tunnel digitalisation across jurisdictions. By consolidating global knowledge and practical experience, this report provides valuable guidance to tunnel designers, operators, maintainers, managers, and safety professionals involved in the planning, delivery, and operation of road tunnel infrastructure.

Information sheet

  • Date: 2026
  • Author(s): Comité technique / Technical Committee / Comité Técnico 2024-2027 4.4 Tunnels / Tunnels / Túneles
  • Domain(s): Road Tunnel Operations
  • Type: 2026R12EN - Case Studies and Survey Report
  • PIARC Ref.: 2026R12EN
  • ISBN: 978-2-84060-869-1