World’s Longest Underwater ‘Megatunnel’ To Cut 21-Hour Coastal Drive Into Half

Imagine going through a tunnel that can keep the world records with regard to its length and depth. The dream is made a reality by the Rogfast tunnel in Norway- an incredible project that will be opened in 2033. This tunnel, set to cost an estimated $46 billion (£36 billion), will go down in history as the longest and deepest road tunnel in the world. It is going to stretch an impressive 16 miles and dive 1,300 feet beneath the seas, connecting Randaberg and Bokn in Rogaland county. 

(Photo Credit: Norwegian Public Roads Administration / Norconsult) World’s Longest Underwater ‘Megatunnel’ To Cut 21-Hour Coastal Drive Into Half

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Travel Game-Changer

But the Rogfast tunnel will not be for just these purposes; this is the travel revolution. For southern and northern Norway, the journey is currently around 21 hours via the E39 coastal highway. With Rogfast, for example, that long lengthened trip from Kristiansand to Trondheim, 680 miles, will be 30 miles shorter, thus allowing saving of hours up to 11! By replacing ferries with this tunnel, all trips would be faster and less stressful.

Even with such a megatonnage, it takes the underwater drive only 35 minutes. Furthermore, it expects to serve about 6,000 vehicles every day connecting bridges such as Bergen and Stavanger. 

Sources Of Funding

It takes a lot to build something as great as that. The Norwegian government is expected to fund 40% of the entire project. The proposed charge for using the tunnel is £30 for a vehicle which will be paid by the drivers. Explaining the importance of the tunnel, Rogfast project leader Oddvar Kaarmo said: "The port at Mortavika is often affected by bad weather, forcing ferries to divert during winter. Weather will not be a problem anymore."

History Of Tunnels In Norway

Norway is not a stranger to large tunneling projects. Back in 2000, the country completed the Lærdal Tunnel, which is now 15 miles long and currently the longest undersea road tunnel in the world. This relatively inexpensive £90 million tunnel connects Lærdal and Aurland in Vestland county. It is indeed more than a way to travel; it is a tourist attraction. The travelers enjoy stunning of the Flåm fjord and the Aurlandsfjellet plateau. You can visit the 800-year-old, historic Borgund Stave Church near here, which is worthy of visiting a portion as well.  

What Makes Rogfast Special? 

Its really about the making a very reliable, weather-proof route through the beautiful Norwegian scenery possible. It also showcases Norwegian genius when it comes to engineering and sustainable travel-making this project ambitious. It will redefine the standard for undersea construction and, in its ultimate vision, make exploring Norway a lot more pleasurable once completed. 

So set your calendars for 2033, as the Rogfast tunnel will come and fasten travels around Norway-who knows faster, safer, and unforgettable.