MOSE stands for MOdulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico (Experimental Electromechanical Module).
The project is intended to protect Venice and the Venetian Lagoon from flooding. It's an integrated system consisting of rows of mobile gates installed at the Lido, Malamocco and Chioggia inlets of the Adriatic Sea. Together with other measures such as coastal reinforcement, the raising of quaysides, and the paving and improvement of the lagoon, MOSE is designed to protect the city and the lagoon from tides of up to 3 metres.
Construction began in 2003, and was reported in September 2016 to be on schedule for completion in June 2018. This did not happen however, as a result (according to Wikipedia) of "multiple delays, cost overruns, and scandals". The first full test was successfully completed on 10 July 2020, and as of August 2020 the project was expected to be fully completed by the end of 2021.
Three years slippage (or maybe three and a half) in a projected lapsed time of fifteen years. Not bad really.
© Haydn Thompson 2017