Traffic increases in Eysturoy and Sandoy tunnels may lead to early end of government funding in Faroe Islands

Traffic is progressing steadily in the Eysturoy and Sandoy tunnels, with this trend suggesting that the government could cease its financial support before 2025, according to Teitur Samuelsen, director of the tunnel company. The government initially provided funds to the tunnel company for the construction of both underwater tunnels.

In 2022, the government’s financial commitment amounted to 54 million crowns. This year, the figure is set at 40 million crowns, down from over 47 million in 2023. Plans for 2025 and 2026 included allocations of 27 and 18 million crowns, respectively, but this may no longer be necessary if the current trend continues.

Usage statistics show a significant increase in traffic since the Eysturoy tunnel opened in December 2020. The first full year post-opening, 2021, saw about 1.6 million vehicles pass through. In 2022, this number rose to 1.8 million, and projections for 2023 indicate it could exceed two million. So far this year, 1.2 million vehicles have used the tunnel, reflecting a six percent increase compared to the same period last year, despite disruptions caused by strikes in May and June.

Traffic in the Sandoy tunnel has also exceeded expectations, with July’s traffic more than tripling initial estimates—nearly 1,200 vehicles compared to the anticipated 350. This increase is contributing to a significant revenue boost, estimated at 12 million crowns.

When asked about the factors allowing the government to withdraw funding sooner than anticipated, Samuelsen noted various improvements, including reduced operational costs that now stand at approximately 60 percent of initial estimates. He emphasized the clear justification for building both tunnels based on current traffic statistics.