The Ministry of Public Works in Chile has approved the vehicular circulation for the El Melón 1 and 2 tunnels located on Ruta 5 North, Chile. The tunnel extension works for the second El Melon tunnel (El Melon 2) are near completion and will be fully operational by September 2022. Works for the electronic toll facility are currently being implemented.

The old tunnel (El Melon 1) will facilitate traffic in south direction while the new tunnel (El Melon 2) will be used by vehicles travelling in north direction. The tunnels are expected to reduce travel time signifacantly for more than 11,000 vehicles daily. Facilities such as variable signaling, pedestrian and emergency vehicle connections will provide safety and reduce the risk of accidents.