Norway is on track to build the world’s longest and deepest road tunnel, known as the Rogfast, with a staggering price tag of $46 billion (£36 billion). This monumental project aims to transform travel in Norway, connecting the municipalities of Randaberg and Bokn in Rogaland County.
Slated for completion in 2033, the Rogfast will span 16 miles and reach depths of 1,300 feet underwater. The Rogfast tunnel aims to revolutionize travel between Norway’s southern and northern regions, significantly easing commutes and enhancing connectivity, according to World Highways.
Currently, travelling between Randaberg and Bokn involves a ferry ride, which contributes to a lengthy 21-hour journey along the 680-mile stretch between Kristiansand and Trondheim on the E39 coastal highway.
The Rogfast tunnel promises to cut this journey time in half by providing a direct underwater roadway, thereby eliminating the need for ferry crossings and reducing the travel distance by 30 miles. This significant reduction in travel time will greatly benefit daily commuters and long-distance travellers alike, making the route more efficient and reliable.
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The Rogfast tunnel is expected to serve around 6,000 vehicles daily, significantly easing commutes to major cities such as Stavanger and Bergen. Despite being the longest and deepest undersea tunnel in the world, traversing the Rogfast will take only about 35 minutes, making it a quick and convenient alternative to the current ferry system, reported by the Mirror.
Funding for this ambitious project comes predominantly from governmental sources, covering approximately 40% of the costs, according to The B1M Additionally, an estimated £30 toll will be imposed for using the tunnel.
Oddvar Kaarmo, the Rogfast project manager, highlighted the logistical challenges, stating, “Once the tunnel is finished, we will not have to rely on good weather to keep the roads open. About half a year after the last drill and blast, we have to deliver the project, so we have to get a lot of work done simultaneously. It’s more about logistics than tunnelling.”
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One of the motivations behind constructing the Rogfast is to overcome the limitations posed by ferry travel. The port at Mortavika is quite exposed, and during winter, ferries sometimes have to divert to another port. This can cause delays and inconvenience for travellers. With the Rogfast tunnel, such issues will be mitigated, providing a more reliable and weather-independent route.
Currently, Norway’s Lærdal tunnel holds the record for the longest underwater road tunnel in the world, measuring 15 miles. Opened in 2000, the Lærdal tunnel connects the municipalities of Lærdal and Aurland in Vestland county, offering a vital ferry-free route between Oslo and Bergen. The Rogfast tunnel, however, will surpass this record, setting new standards in underwater tunnel construction.
The completion of the Rogfast tunnel is also expected to boost tourism in the region. Travel guides and experts from Norway highly recommend the journey through Norway’s scenic routes. The new tunnel will offer tourists a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Norway’s underwater landscape while making travel more accessible and efficient.
