W Norway launches the project of building the world's first tunnel for ships

Construction of the planned tunnel under the Stadlandet peninsula for over 100 years between Moldefjorden and Syltefjorden may start in 2022. The start of the route is planned for 2026. The tunnel will be 1.7 km long, 50 metres high and 36 metres wide and will allow you to bypass dangerous waters.

The project was accepted in May by the Norwegian Parliament. In October, 440 million kroner (approximately €45 million) were reserved in the state budget for the first phase of the project.

According to the Norwegian Coast Administration (Kystverket), work is currently underway on the selection of the main tunnel contractor.

"It will be the world's first full-size ferry crossing for ships forged in rock" – emphasises Pal Are Lilleheim of Kystverket.

The tunnel will not significantly shorten the routes of the Scandinavian ships, but will prevent the vessels from leaving for the Atlantic Sea.

"Due to the weather conditions, the Stadlandet peninsula is the most dangerous stretch of the Norwegian coast," Lilleheim points out.

In the waters surrounding the Stadlandet peninsula storms occur for 100 days a year. Strong North Sea currents make navigation difficult, and many ships must wait to sail for a few days. Since World War II, 33 people have died on this watershed. Legend has it that the Vikings did not decide to sail the peninsula, and their boats carried land.

The tunnel is also intended to contribute to economic development and tourism. The crossing will be open to both large container ships and cruisers, as well as sailing boats at certain times.

The total investment cost is estimated at 3.4 billion kroner (approximately EUR 350 million).

Source: PAP