The world’s longest and deepest underwater tunnel, which will connect Germany and Denmark, is currently under construction. Upon completion, the tunnel, with a total cost of €10 billion, will span 18 kilometers and accommodate both road and rail traffic. Specifically, it will feature two two-lane highways separated by a service passage, alongside two railway tracks. The project is anticipated to significantly shorten travel times between Scandinavia and Central Europe, marking a new era for European connectivity. Additionally, the tunnel will establish a greener transport route and boost rail usage. Notably, the project has received the European Commission’s endorsement through its Ten-T Programme, deeming it a worthwhile investment.
Although the idea for the tunnel's construction was initiated in 2008, the actual construction began twelve years later in 2020, followed by two groundbreaking ceremonies in Denmark (2020) and Germany (2021). The tunnel is expected to be completed in 2029 after undergoing comprehensive safety and contingency tests.
At the outset of the project, preparatory work began at Rødbyhavn on Lolland and Puttgarden on Fehmarn Island. Additionally, in 2022, Femern A/S started constructing portal buildings at both ends of the tunnel, which are anticipated to be finished by the end of 2024 on the Danish side and in 2025 on the German side. Last spring, a permanent dike was completed near the Danish portal, allowing for the removal of a temporary dike and the straightening of the coastline.
Jens Ole Kaslund, the technical director of Femern A/S, the Danish state-owned company leading the project, highlighted the significance of the tunnel, noting that it will halve travel time between Copenhagen and Hamburg.
Efforts for sustainable construction are a key focus worldwide, and the Fehmarn Belt Tunnel aligns with this initiative through its long-term, eco-friendly design. However, environmentalists have raised concerns about the impact of construction on marine ecosystems, particularly in the EU-protected Fehmarn Belt. In response, Femern A/S has stated that despite the project's temporary environmental disruptions, they are committed to mitigating its impact.
To address these concerns, Femern A/S has pledged to create vast areas of new natural habitats, including 300 hectares of coastal wetlands on land and 42 hectares of reefs at sea. Additionally, green corridors at Rødbyhavn will support insect populations and protect local flora and fauna. In April 2023, a “climate forest” initiative was launched with the participation of local schoolchildren, community partners, and officials. Furthermore, the tunnel is expected to reduce congestion and CO2 emissions by enhancing transport efficiency.
Sources: greekreporter.com, edition.cnn.com, ramboll.com, vinci.com, femern.com
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