Case Study: The Øresund Link—Engineering Connectivity Across Borders
The Øresund Bridge and Drogden Tunnel, collectively known as the Øresund Link, represent a remarkable engineering feat connecting Denmark and Sweden. This bridge-tunnel structure is a vital road and rail link, enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration.
The primary motivation behind the Øresund Link was to improve transport links in Northern Europe, facilitating smoother travel between Copenhagen and Malmö. The project aimed to bolster regional development and enhance economic cooperation. The idea of a fixed link across the Øresund dates back to the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that the project gained momentum, culminating in the bridge’s opening in July 2000.
The Øresund Bridge spans nearly 8 km and features a double-track railway beneath a four-lane motorway. The bridge’s design includes a cable-stayed section with a main span of 491 meters, supported by two 204-meter-high pylons. This design ensures the necessary rigidity to support heavy rail traffic and withstand harsh weather conditions.
The Drogden Tunnel, extending 4 km, connects the bridge to the Danish island of Amager. This immersed tube tunnel comprises 20 prefabricated concrete segments, each weighing 55,000 tonnes. The tunnel’s construction involved precise underwater placement, ensuring stability and durability.
The decision to use both a bridge and a tunnel was driven by several factors. The tunnel avoids interference with air traffic from the nearby Copenhagen Airport and ensures an unobstructed passage for large ships in the busy Øresund Strait. Additionally, the tunnel minimizes environmental impact and protects the structure from ice floes. The artificial island of Peberholm facilitates the seamless transition between the bridge and tunnel.
The rail line on the Øresund Bridge is part of the Øresund Line, connecting the Danish and Swedish rail networks. This double-track railway is electrified, allowing for efficient and high-speed train travel between Copenhagen and Malmö. The rail line supports both passenger and freight services, enhancing the region’s connectivity and economic integration.
Given the critical nature of the rail link, the Øresund Bridge includes a sophisticated maintenance system. A motorized gantry runs beneath the railway deck, equipped with tools and a hydraulic arm for inspections and repairs, ensuring optimal rail infrastructure condition and safety.
The Øresund Link has significantly impacted the region by reducing travel time between Copenhagen and Malmö to 35 minutes by train, fostering cross-border commuting and cultural exchange. Economically, it has stimulated growth by facilitating trade and tourism, benefiting businesses with improved logistics and access to a larger labour market. The rail connection promotes sustainable transport for passengers and freight, reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. The Øresund Link exemplifies engineering’s power to bridge physical, economic, and cultural divides.