AF Gruppen and Apprentices Ignite a New Era Final Blast in Fåberg Tunnel Marks a Milestone for the E6

Apprentices Robin Årevik, Levi Slettedal and Lisell Storstein set off the final blast.

The drill and blast work is completed.

(IN BRIEF) The Fåberg Tunnel, a 2.8-kilometer twin-tube passage that forms part of the new E6 between Storhove and Øyer in Innlandet, has reached a significant milestone with the final blast fired by apprentices Robin Årevik, Levi Slettedal, and Lisell Storstein. Built by AF Gruppen for Nye Veier, the tunnel has seen over 1,200 blasts and the removal of more than 450,000 cubic meters of rock since January 2024. Project managers from both Nye Veier and AF Gruppen praised the achievement as a testament to progress, especially given the challenging geological conditions that necessitated rigorous safety measures. The milestone not only highlights the tunnel’s contribution to improved national connectivity for travelers, businesses, and emergency services along the E6, but also serves as a critical training platform where six apprentices successfully completed their trade tests. Following a traditional celebration involving speeches, a ceremonial christening of the rock pile, and shared treats, the focus now shifts to finishing the tunnel’s remaining infrastructure—such as drainage, waterproofing, and technical system installations—before it can be officially opened. This project is part of a broader initiative that includes the construction of an adjacent 23-kilometer section, further cementing the new E6’s role as a vital transport corridor through Innlandet.

(PRESS RELEASE) OSLO, 3-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — In a historic moment for the new E6 near Lillehammer, apprentices Robin Årevik, Levi Slettedal, and Lisell Storstein had the distinct honor of igniting the final blast in the Fåberg Tunnel. This 2.8-kilometer-long twin-tube tunnel—integral to the stretch between Storhove and Øyer in Innlandet—is being constructed by AF Gruppen on behalf of Nye Veier and marks a major milestone in the project.

At the ceremony, which celebrated the completion of over 1,200 blasts and the removal of more than 450,000 cubic meters of rock, project manager Steinar Fretheim from Nye Veier expressed his enthusiasm: “Today is a great day for all of us. The breakthrough is clear evidence of progress and stands as an important milestone for everyone involved in this pivotal transport project. The E6 is the country’s main artery, and the new road will bring substantial benefits to travelers, businesses, and emergency services. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to AF Gruppen for their excellent cooperation and the outstanding work delivered.”

The tunnel’s construction has not been without its challenges. The work required navigating difficult geological conditions, with varying rock quality demanding extra safety measures during drilling and blasting. Project manager Anja Krohn Bjørnstad from AF Gruppen highlighted that the Fåberg Tunnel has served as a training ground for tunnel expertise, with six apprentices successfully completing their apprenticeship and trade tests on site. She also acknowledged the patience of local residents affected by the construction.

The ceremony featured a dramatic display as the apprentices set off a powerful 1000-kilo explosive blast, echoing through the tunnel while spectators safely observed from the adjacent tube. Following the blast, traditional rituals took place—speeches were made, a rock pile was christened by sprinkling liquor, and marzipan cake was shared, with even a dumper drawer serving as an impromptu table.

Although the drilling and blasting phase is now complete, substantial work remains. The tunnel still requires the construction of drainage systems, roadway surfaces, waterproofing, and frost protection. Additionally, technical systems such as lighting, ventilation fans, fire-fighting equipment, and comprehensive safety features must be installed and rigorously tested before the tunnel can open to traffic. This milestone is one of three key sections in the extensive development of the new E6 through Innlandet, with a neighboring 23-kilometer stretch from Storhove to Roterud also under construction by Nye Veier in collaboration with AF Gruppen.

Media Contact:

Knut Ekern
Communication Director
AF Gruppen Konsern
email: knut.ekern@afgruppen.no
Tel: +47 930 02 600

SOURCE: AF Gruppen