Exploring the Faroe Islands: The Impressive Underwater Tunnels

🚇The Faroe Islands have become experts in tunneling, building over 50 kilometers of road tunnels for a population of just 53,000 people.

👷‍♂️The estuary tunnel, opened in 2020, reduced travel time between two populous islands from over an hour to just 15 minutes.

🌊The undersea tunnels, known as the Asta Tunnel and Sandoy Tunnel, will further connect remote villages and reduce commute time to the capital.

🧱The tunnel construction employs drilling and blasting techniques, followed by lining the tunnels with concrete to ensure stability.

💰The tunnel projects come with a significant investment of nearly $700 million, but the revenue generated from tolls will cover the costs.

How long did it take to complete the estuary tunnel?

—The construction of the 10.5-kilometer estuary tunnel took four years to complete.

Will the undersea tunnels improve transportation for remote villages?

—Yes, the undersea tunnels will connect remote villages to the main infrastructure network, reducing travel time and improving accessibility.

What is the purpose of the roundabout in the Asta Tunnel?

—The roundabout, located 72 meters below the surface, serves as a junction point for smoother traffic flow within the tunnel.

How is the tunnel construction funded?

—The tunnel construction is funded through tolls collected from the users of the tunnels, covering the construction, maintenance, and future tunnel projects.

How are the tunnels designed to withstand rough weather conditions?

—The tunnels are designed with a solid lining of concrete and a system of gates, pumps, and pipes to divert rain and surface water away from the tunnels.

00:12Welcome to the Faroe Islands, where impressive underwater tunnels connect rugged landscapes.

01:30Life in the Faroe Islands can be challenging due to unpredictable weather and limited transportation options.

04:23The Faroe Islands have become experts in tunneling, constructing over 50 kilometers of road tunnels across the archipelago.

06:23The estuary tunnel, opened in 2020, has reduced travel time between two populous islands from over an hour to just 15 minutes.

08:43The undersea tunnels, Asta Tunnel and Sandoy Tunnel, are set to further connect remote villages and provide easier access to the capital.

09:29The construction of the undersea tunnels is a significant investment, but toll revenues will cover the costs.