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IN BRIEF
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The longest underwater tunnel in the world is set to become a reality, promising to transform connections between two European nations, Germany and Denmark. This bold project, extending 18 kilometers, will directly connect the island of Fehmarn to the island of Lolland, thereby drastically reducing travel times and facilitating cultural and economic exchanges. Similar to the famous Channel Tunnel, this engineering marvel will aim not only to alleviate maritime traffic but also to strengthen the union between the concerned countries, paving the way for new travel opportunities and adventures.
An unprecedentedly large project is underway: the submerged tunnel of the Fehmarn Belt will become the longest underwater tunnel in the world. This new infrastructure will connect Denmark to Germany, revolutionizing transport between these two European countries. With its length of 18 kilometers, this tunnel is not only set to change our travel perspectives, but it could also stabilize the economic and cultural relations between these nations.
Impressive technical details
This tunnel, which is expected to be completed in 2029, represents a colossal investment of nearly 7 billion euros. Its innovative design is already one of the highlights of the project. Unlike other underwater tunnels, the Fehmarn Belt tunnel has been designed to be laid directly on the seabed, through a dredging process in the Baltic Sea. By using prefabricated elements, the designers have optimized construction time while ensuring the safety and durability of the structure.
Bridging distances
The Fehmarn Belt tunnel promises to reduce travel time between Scandinavia and the rest of Europe.
Currently, the ferry ride between the island of Lolland (Denmark) and the island of Fehmarn (Germany) takes about 45 minutes. With the opening of this tunnel, travel times will be drastically reduced. In fact, it will take only 7 minutes by train and 10 minutes by car to make the same journey. This will transform the travel habits of Europeans, thus facilitating tourism and commercial exchanges.
Enhanced connectivity
The Fehmarn Belt tunnel will not only have a capacity of approximately 10,000 vehicles per day, but it will also allow for the circulation of 60 daily trains. This multiple capacity will ensure a constant flow of passengers and goods between the two countries. Engineers and urban planners celebrate this project, which could serve as a model for other underwater links in Europe.
An inspiration for the future
This project could also pave the way for other similar infrastructures in Europe. Discussions about underwater tunnels are already underway for links between Sicily and the Italian mainland, as well as between Helsinki and Tallinn. These future projects could benefit from the experiences gained from the construction of the Fehmarn Belt tunnel.
Environmental and social impact
As with any major infrastructure project, questions arise concerning the environmental and social impact of the Fehmarn Belt tunnel. The promoters of this project emphasize the measures taken to minimize negative effects on the marine ecosystem of the Baltic Sea. Moreover, this tunnel is intended to promote better sustainable mobility, encouraging an increase in public transport use and reducing reliance on ferries.
Consequently, the Fehmarn Belt tunnel is more than just a construction project. It symbolizes a strengthening of ties between two nations and a shift towards modern and efficient transport solutions in Europe.
