The Mont Blanc tunnel fire between France and Italy in 1999.

 The Mont Blanc Tunnel Fire in 1999: A Devastating Incident in Tunnel History The Mont Blanc Tunnel, an engineering marvel connecting France and Italy, experienced a catastrophic event on March 24, 1999. The incident, known as the Mont Blanc Tunnel fire, remains etched in history as a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of a tunnel fire. This article explores the events surrounding the fire, the heroic rescue efforts, the aftermath, and the lasting impact on tunnel safety regulations. Introduction The Mont Blanc Tunnel, opened in 1965, is a vital transportation link between France and Italy, spanning a distance of approximately 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) beneath the Mont Blanc mountain range. It serves as a crucial route for commercial and private vehicles, facilitating cross-border trade and tourism. However, on that fateful day in 1999, the tunnel became the site of a disastrous fire that would change the course of its history forever. Construction and features of th...