E6 closure diverts traffic through Misvær, boosting local visits

The closure of the E6 between Rognan and Fauske has rerouted traffic through the small village of Misvær in Bodø, Nordland, significantly increasing visits to local businesses, reports Dagbladet.

Victoria Wangberg Nesbak, a 29-year-old summer temp at the YX Misvær gas station—the only one along the detour between Røkland and Tverlandet—said customer numbers have surged since the highway shut down in late June due to damage in a retaining wall. The station has extended its weekday hours to 8 p.m. and added staff to handle demand.

Nearby, Anette Morsund, owner of the café, bakery, and secondhand shop Amors, reported more travelers stopping in, often to use the restroom. “I’ve noticed more people coming in to borrow the toilet. I understand, and it doesn’t bother me at all,” she said. Morsund, who has run the business since 2009, described the increased activity as pleasant, noting visitors seem content despite the narrower, slower detour.

Statens vegvesen, Norway’s road authority, said the E6 closure—expected to last until the weekend—was necessary to address structural damage near Setså in Saltdal. A temporary bridge is being installed. “We deeply regret the inconvenience and understand this is a burden for many,” said Kristian Riddervold Andreassen, a bridge maintenance site manager, in a statement. “We’re acting to keep the road open and safe.”