Global walker refused access to Channel Tunnel

Global Walker Denied Entry to Channel Tunnel

Global walker refused access to Channel - A British explorer faces a hurdle in completing his ambitious 36,000-mile trek around the globe. Karl Bushby, a 57-year-old former paratrooper from Hull, embarked on the journey from Chile in 1998 and has now reached Belgium. His challenge requires him to traverse without using any transport, but access to the Channel Tunnel was denied after his formal request was turned down.

The Eurotunnel spokesperson stated that safety and operational concerns led to the decision. Bushby anticipates arriving in Calais, France, by September, but the refusal means he may have to swim across the English Channel instead. "I've only just been told of the decision and it's early days," Bushby remarked, adding that his team would need to discuss next steps. "If I have to swim again, I’m prepared to do that."

Service Tunnel Constraints

Eurotunnel explained that the Service Tunnel is a critical pathway for safety and maintenance work. Closing it for 15 hours—spanning two days—would disrupt passenger services and delay essential operations. "Access is tightly controlled, and any activity within the tunnel requires detailed planning and specialist support," the spokesperson noted. They emphasized that ensuring all actions meet strict operational criteria is paramount to safeguarding passengers, staff, and infrastructure.

"We have carefully considered his request and explored a range of possible options. Regretfully, we are unable to accommodate Mr Bushby's wishes," the Eurotunnel spokesperson said.

Previous Feats and Resilience

Bushby has already demonstrated remarkable endurance through water crossings. In 2006, he swam the Bering Strait, navigating ice gaps while wearing an immersion suit. Earlier this year, he completed a 186-mile swim across the Caspian Sea, a feat no one had achieved before. Despite the setback, he remains determined, stating, "I may have to start paddling again."

The BBC first highlighted Bushby’s concerns last year, noting his worry about being barred from the Eurotunnel. He humorously remarked, "Even the Russians let me through [their country], despite world tensions." Bushby plans to conclude his journey at his childhood home, where his mother will be waiting to greet him.