The Rogfast tunnel, which is expected to be the longest and deepest underwater tunnel in the world, will transform transport along the country's west coast. Once construction is completed in 2033, the 27-kilometer tunnel located 400 m below the sea surface will eliminate the need to use ferries on a key section of the E39 motorway.
The Rogfast tunnel will connect Randaberg and Bokn. It will have four lanes, which will ensure safe and smooth passage of vehicles. The project represents a technological breakthrough, surpassing even the Norwegian Laerdal Tunnel (24 km), which was previously the longest road tunnel in the world.
Engineers must meet, among others: ventilation requirements to ensure adequate air quality inside the tunnel during the 35-minute journey.
The west coast of Norway, with its characteristic fjords, has been a logistics challenge for years. Currently, a journey from Trondheim to Kristiansand takes as much as 21 hours, including seven ferry crossings. The Rogfast tunnel will cut this time almost in half – to around 10 hours. This will not only improve commercial transport, but also open new opportunities for tourism in one of the most beautiful regions of Europe.
Tunnel worth EUR 2 billion
The cost of constructing the tunnel is estimated at EUR 1.6-2 billion, and the toll will be approximately EUR 38 per vehicle. While this may seem like a high amount, users will save on ferry fees and travel time. For commercial transport, this means greater predictability and reduced operating costs.
The tourism sector will also benefit from this investment. Better accessibility of previously isolated regions will attract more visitors, which will translate into growth of the local economy.
