The Eysturoy tunnel opens in Denmark

A mega underwater tunnel opens in Denmark’s Faroe Islands, reducing a one hour trip to 16 minutes

The new under- sea tunnel will connect the Faroe Islands of Eysturoy and Streymor.  Residents of the towns in Denmark’s Faroe Islands are looking forward to the tunnel’s opening. 

Until now, travel time between the islands was an hour.  With the new road system, it will take only a quarter of an hour to cover just 17 km, over 11 km inside the tunnel.  It is a length 3 times longer than the Strait of Messina, a controversial 3.2 km distance from Calabria to Sicily, for which bridges and tunnels have been discussed for years without arriving at a solution. 

Also read: Up to date news in Copenhagen and Denmark

Work on the tunnel between capital towns Torshavn and Runavik began in 2017, and brings cars to almost 190 meters below sea level.  The total cost of the project was just shy of 180 million euros. 

The Eysturoy Tunnel is part of an architectural marvel, that passengers of the expected 6 thousand vehicles daily will be able to enjoy at a price of about 13 euros each way. 

Local artist Trondur Patursson designed a spectacular roundabout, as well as the lighting and patina on the walls, which evoke a journey through ice. 

Ph: BBC