The International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA) and the Tunnelling Association of Canada are hosting the ITA World Tunnel Congress 2026 in Montréal, Quebec, from May 15-21. The event, titled “Connecting Communities Through Underground Infrastructure (Tunnelling) will cover various aspects of underground space development, including contract practices, insurance, risk management, site investigation, and more. It offers a platform for engineers, contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and clients to share expertise and explore opportunities in underground infrastructure. The ITA World Tunnel Congress 2026 (WTC2026) is set to take place from May 15 to 21.
2026, in Montréal, Canada. This premier event, organized by the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA) in collaboration with the Canadian Tunnelling Association (TAC), will be held at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, a venue renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and central location. The congress aims to bring together professionals from around the globe to explore the theme “Connecting Communities through Underground Infrastructure. Montréal was selected as the host city due to its rich history in underground infrastructure, including the extensive RESO network, which comprises over 33 kilometres of underground pathways.
connecting various parts of the city. This network serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to innovative urban planning and sustainable development. The congress will provide a platform for participants to discuss and share knowledge on various aspects of tunnelling and underground space utilization, fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry In addition to the technical sessions, the congress will feature an exhibition showcasing the latest technologies, equipment, and services in the tunnelling industry. This exhibition will serve as a hub for networking, allowing attendees to engage with exhibitors, discuss innovations, and explore potential collaborations.
Furthermore, the event will host various social and networking activities, providing opportunities for professionals to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships within the global tunnelling community. The call for abstracts for WTC2026 opened on March 3, 2025, with the extended submission deadline set for June 30, 2025. Accepted abstracts will be notified by July 15, 2025, and full paper submissions are due by October 26, 2025, with notifications of acceptance by December 12, 2025. The full paper revision deadline is January 9, 2026, and final notifications will be sent by January 16, 2026. These timelines ensure a structured and organized process for contributors to present their research and findings to the international community.
Registration for the congress is anticipated to open in the fall of 2025. Interested participants are encouraged to stay informed by visiting the official WTC2026 website and signing up for newsletters to receive the latest updates and information regarding the event. This congress presents a unique opportunity for professionals in the tunnelling and underground space sectors to engage with cutting-edge developments, share knowledge, and contribute to the advancement of the industry. For more detailed information on the congress program, abstract submissions, sponsorship opportunities, and registration details, please visit the official WTC2026 website.
This platform will serve as the central hub for all event-related updates and resources, ensuring participants have access to the most current information as the congress approaches the ITA World Tunnel Congress 2026 in Montréal promises to be a landmark event in the field of underground infrastructure. With its comprehensive technical program, diverse exhibition, and vibrant (ITA) networking opportunities, the congress will facilitate meaningful discussions and collaborations that will shape the future of tunnelling and underground space utilization. Professionals from around the world are invited to join this global gathering to connect, learn, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the industry.
Q1. What is ITA World Tunnel Congress 2026?
ITA WTC 2026 is a global conference on Tunnelling and underground engineering, featuring experts, Innovations, and industry breakthroughs.
Q2. When and where will it be held?
The congress will take place in Montréal, Canada, in 2026 (exact dates to be announced by ITA).
Q3. Who should attend the event?
Civil engineers, tunnelling experts, construction companies, researchers, and students in underground infrastructure fields.
Q4. What topics are covered at the congress?
Tunnel design, construction technologies, safety innovations, urban underground development, and sustainability practices.
Q5. How can I register for ITA WTC 2026?
Registration will be available on the official ITA website. Early-bird and professional packages are usually offered.
