The cost differential between the route from Djúpadali to Sandvíkar and the route from Traðardali to Sandvíkar has been clarified: it stands at 100 million ISK, rather than the previously suggested one and a half billion.
This insight comes from Landsverk, which recently submitted a consultation letter regarding the proposed Suðuroy Tunnel, now open for public input.
In their communication, Landsverk focused on the Act pertaining to the South Iceland Tunnel, along with associated tunnel and road systems. They emphasized that when comparing the tunnel routes from Traðardalur and Djúpadalur, the cost variance is relatively minor.
Landsverk’s assessment indicates a difference of about 105 million ISK, equivalent to a mere two percent.
Uncertainties Can Shift
However, this two percent variance isn’t set in stone. Landsverk cautions that existing uncertainties surrounding the project could significantly alter this difference, suggesting that it shouldn’t serve as the sole foundation for decision-making.
Other critical factors must also be weighed, such as mitigating traffic through Sands village, safeguarding the natural landscape in Djúpadalur, and reducing travel times for residents in the south.
Landsverk’s cost-benefit analysis reveals that the Traðardalur route could yield more substantial benefits for the national economy compared to its Djúpadalur counterpart. Their latest evaluation indicates that the Traðardalur route would result in a deficit of ISK 676 million, whereas the Djúpadalur route’s deficit would exceed ISK 892 million.
Furthermore, Landsverk has previously conducted a rigorous review of the tunnel company’s cost estimates, indicating that they may be understated.
Kasper Nordmelan, who led an independent review for the Suðuroy Tunnel, echoed these concerns, stating that Norconsult, the consultant for the tunnel company, has not adhered to standard cost assessment practices, resulting in figures that are likely too low.
Landsverk Submits Consultation Letter to Government
Inadequate Descriptions of Doubts
In its response, Landsverk pointed out that the groundwork for the project lacks sufficient detail for stakeholders to make informed decisions, highlighting additional uncertainties that the proposal does not adequately address.
The absence of geological surveys, crucial for understanding the project’s viability, was specifically noted. Landsverk asserts that further geological evaluations are essential before any final decision is made regarding the tunnel.
Current assessments rely on preliminary studies from 2021, and Landsverk emphasizes that Jarðfeingi must complete its geological research to address potential challenges effectively.
Lack of Safety Evaluations for Skúvoy Tunnel
Additionally, Landsverk pointed out a significant gap: the lack of a comprehensive safety strategy for the proposed tunnel route to Skúvoy. They argue for an independent consultant to conduct an overall safety assessment to explore various security solutions effectively.
Safety considerations are paramount and could influence the chosen tunnel route, necessitating detailed validation before any further progression on the project.
According to the 2024 tunnel Directive, safety protocols implemented in Europe do not currently approve safety spaces, a decision made after the large fires of the early 2000s. Landsverk insists that safety provisions must align with a cohesive strategy developed by an independent safety advisor.
In summary, Landsverk expresses concern that the existing material presents considerable uncertainties that warrant closer scrutiny.
The proposal to prepare, design, and tender the construction of the Suðuroy Tunnel was submitted for consultation on October 31, with a two-week feedback window closing on Friday, November 14.
Read the full consultation letter.
