Europe – Laerdal Tunnel Passenger Transport Contract (E16), Norway

Client / awarding authority: Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen)

Winning contractor(s):  Open procedure, Norway

Project scope

Open procedure for the provision of passenger transport services during upgrading works to the Laerdal Tunnel on the E16 between Aurland and Laerdal.

The contract covers the operation of a controlled public transport system to mitigate the impact of nightly tunnel closures associated with rehabilitation works. The Laerdal Tunnel, forming part of the Oslo–Bergen corridor (E16), is the world’s longest road tunnel and a critical national and regional transport link.

During construction, blasting works will be undertaken inside the main tunnel during night-time hours, requiring full closure from 18:00 to 06:00. Due to limited alternative routes in the area, the contractor will provide scheduled passenger transport through the closed tunnel under controlled conditions.

Transport operations will follow a predefined route, with mandatory seat booking and coordination with the works contractor to confirm tunnel accessibility prior to each journey. Drivers will be required to complete specific HSE-certified training and assessment before commencing operations.

Tunnel characteristics

Type: Road tunnel

Length: 24.5 km

Key features:

Longest road tunnel globally

Three large mountain caverns for ventilation and driver rest areas

Part of the E16 strategic highway linking eastern and western Norway

Subject to ongoing upgrading and safety improvement works

Contract value: Not stated

Duration: 07 September 2026 – 30 June 2028

Location: Vestland County, between Aurland and Laerdal, Norway

Please use this link for tender documentation: https://ted.europa.eu/en/notice/-/detail/206497-2026 (OJ S 059) Reference: 26/22773. 14/26