Čepić Polje – Plomin Bay Tunnel: An Engineering Feat that Changed the Landscape

The Čepić Polje – Plomin Bay Tunnel

The Čepić Polje – Plomin Bay Tunnel is a fascinating structure that has stood for decades as a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to change nature. Built in 1932, this 4,250-meter-long tunnel played a monumental role in draining Čepić Lake and transforming the area into fertile farmland.

From Lake to Field

Čepić Polje was once a lake that occasionally flooded, making it difficult to cultivate the land and live in the area. With the construction of the tunnel, water from the lake was diverted to Plomin Bay, which led to a drastic drop in water level and the creation of a fertile plain.

Impressive Dimensions

The tunnel is impressive in its size. It is 4,250 meters long, about 4 meters high, and up to 6 meters wide. Its concrete construction facilitates water flow and prevents collapse.

No Entry Allowed

For safety reasons, entering the tunnel is strictly prohibited. The floor of the tunnel deteriorates over time and is even non-existent in some sections. During dry years, the tunnel is passable, but during years of heavy rainfall, the Boljunčica, the river that once fed the lake, swells, and the tunnel fills with water almost to the top.

A Symbol of Engineering Skill

The Čepić Polje – Plomin Bay Tunnel is more than just a structure. It is a symbol of engineering skill and human perseverance in changing nature and adapting to the environment. Thanks to this structure, Čepić Polje has become a fertile area that contributes to Istria’s agriculture.

Interesting Facts:

• The construction of the tunnel lasted 4 years and began in 1928.
• A track was installed in the tunnel, which was used to transport materials during construction.
• The tunnel was also used as a shelter during World War II.

The Čepić Polje – Plomin Bay Tunnel is a valuable monument to engineering skill and a reminder of the power of human will to transform nature and create better living conditions.

Date of visit: 22.06.2023

Sources

• Wikimedije, D. P. (2024b, January 5). Tunel Čepićko polje – Plominski zaljev. Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://hr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tunel_%C4%8Cepi%C4%87ko_polje_%E2%80%93_Plominski_zaljev
• Uravić, E. (2021, December 8). Na današnji dan prije 89 godina otvoren je vodovodni tunel koji spaja Čepić i Plominski zaljev. Labinska Komuna. https://labinskakomuna.eu/opcine/na-danasnji-dan-prije-89-godina-otvoren-je-vodovodni-tunel-koji-spaja-cepic-i-plominski-zaljev/