Yes, there's a wall there and you must press a hidden switch to lower that wall.
And about the tunnel, the other option is to stop above the manhole and climb
down the ladder.
Sorry I'm not good with answers, but I wrote a FAQ* in
this thread.
Here's a sample:
Q: I only have the (E) version of the Rom, can you send me the (U) version?
A: No, sharing Roms are not allowed here, but you can use the (E) version too.
Q: I used the (E) version as you said, but the game is running slow, why?
A: Go to Config => Speed => Set Speed => 100% (normal speed).
Q: Why use Snes9x rerecording 1.43 and not 1.51?
A: I tried the version 1.51, but the lag was unbearable.
Q: I saw that you still hit a pillar you're trying to jump over, why?
A: That's the faster way, otherwise you land on top of the pillar.
Q: Your movie is only 10% entertaining. Haven't you read the rule about this?
A: It’s a guideline, not a rule, but if that’s the case, watch only 10% of the run.
* Fake Asked Questions