Norway is building one of the most ambitious engineering works on the planet: a underwater tunnel which promises to change the way regions separated by fjords are connected.
It is about the Rogfasta project that will link Rogaland County through an underpass of more than 26 kilometers longbecoming the longest and deepest underwater road tunnel in the world.
A work that breaks records
According to Euronewshe Rogfast will reach a depth of up to 390 meters below sea levelcrossing the fjords that separate the towns of Randaberg y Bokn. The objective is eliminate the need for ferries currently operating in the area and significantly reduce travel time between Stavanger y Haugesundtwo of the main cities in southwestern Norway.
According to the European media, the magnitude of the Rogfast makes it an unprecedented challenge for the engineers in charge of its construction. Unlike other existing sea tunnels, this one will combine a extreme length with record depthwhat requires advanced technical solutions in ventilation, evacuation, drainage and structural safety.
The project is part of the E39 carriagewaythe coastal route that connects south and north Norway along the Atlantic. Once completed, the tunnel will reduce by more than 40 minutes the journey between both regions, promoting trade and tourism in an area where fjords have historically been a natural barrier for land transportation.
Economic and environmental impact
He Rogfast It not only seeks to improve connectivity, but also contribute to more sustainable mobility. According to Euronews Nextthe elimination of ferries will reduce CO₂ emissions and the logistical costs of maritime transport, while allowing a more constant flow of vehicles.
The project has a estimated cost of more than 2,000 million eurosfinanced in part by the Norwegian State and by future tolls. Engineers estimate that construction will extend throughout the decade, with an opening date planned for 2033 if there are no geological or budgetary setbacks.
Norway, pioneer in tunnels under the sea
With this mega-project, Norway reaffirms its leadership in underwater tunnel engineering. The country already has several passes under the sea, but none of the magnitude of Rogfast. The work combines advanced drilling technology, digital monitoring and reinforcement structures resistant to ocean pressurewhich marks a new world standard for this type of infrastructure.
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