Fámjin tunnel, Faroe Islands

The project involves the excavation of a 1200 meter long tunnel and the construction of a road to the village of Fámjin, which Metrostav Norge carried out under challenging geological and climatic conditions on the Faroe Islands.

Basic information

  • Client: J&K Petersen Contractors
  • Contractor: Metrostav Norge AS
  • Construction period: 10/2022 – 08/2024
  • Price: 140 000 000 DKK excl. VAT 

Project characteristics

This is a project containing excavation of new tunnel and building of new road to village of Fámjin on the southernmost island of the Faroe Islands. Metrostav Norge as a subcontractor provided excavation, reinforcement of the tunnel and water and frost protection works.

Tunnel with the length of 1 200 m was excavated from one direction from portal above Øravík village. Profile of the tunnel is T8,5, ca 65 m2 with two safety bays.

Before the excavation started, it was necessary to build up construction site on the greenfield, including temporary reservoir for technological water.

The biggest challenges were not only complicated geological composition, but also harsh climate conditions with wind gusts reaching up to speed of 200 kph.

Project data

1 pcs (1200 m)
Tunnel:
T8,5 - 65 m2
Tunnel profile:
80 000 m3
Excavated volume:
8 000 m3
Shotcrete:
10 450 pcs
Rockbolts:
90 000 kg
Reinforcement:
3000 m2
Water and frost insulation:

Challenges / Specifics of the project

  • Excavation on multiple lava flows divide, often geological disorders
  • Harsh climate conditions – constant rain, strong wind with gusts up to 200 kph, strong snowfalls in winter
  • Site remoteness – complicated logistics with precise material planning for 4-6 weeks ahead, poor spare parts availability

Gallery

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