Japanese to Decide on Bosphorus Tube Next Week

Japanese officials visiting Turkey last week to discuss the final details of a bid for the project wanted a two-week period of time for final deliberations. If the project is approved by the Japanese experts who have been examining the 800-page bid specifications since January, excavation under the Bosphorus will begin in October.

The Japanese reportedly warned the Ministry of Transportation to see to the enactment of regulations deemed necessary for technical problems that might arise, particularly in the initial construction stages of the tube. Worried about the possibility of encountering unexpected rock formations during excavation, the Japanese contractor has demanded permission to use explosives to break up the rocks. They maintain that without the ability to blast the rocks, the progress of the project might be hindered.

Selim Kuvel / Ankara / TURKEY