The massive cloudburst that hit Lolland and Falster recently has given the construction project at the Fehmarn tunnel some technical headaches. Fortunately, the situation has not led to any serious injuries, but it has created challenges that require engineering finesse.
Peter Aalund, project manager at Banedanmark, emphasizes that there have been no serious consequences for the construction of the two-track train section from Falster to Lolland, which will connect to the Fehmarn tunnel:
The problem with such a cloudburst is that so much water comes. But we managed it by pumping the water away, he says to Lolland-Falster’s Folketidende.
Prepared for the scenario
Although the weather gods have teased, the preparations for just such scenarios are included in the overall design.
– We take reservations for the unpredictability of the weather. Among other things, we build slopes with clay soil because it is more robust against rain, says Aalund.
In addition, the project uses so-called “coconut mats” on the slopes, which help grass and vegetation to take hold quite quickly. It creates a root network that protects against erosion and increases the plant’s resilience.
Simulates large amounts of rain
Aalund admits that the challenges with water have delayed the construction process, but this is included in the expected risks.
– We have a temporal buffer in place, and we are still within the target, states Peter Aalund.
To ensure that similar problems do not arise in the future, the construction team uses advanced simulations.
– We are investigating what will happen if there are violent amounts of water and where the water will stand, says the project manager.
Fauna passages with positive side effect
As a further measure, fauna passages, new small bridges that lead streams under the course, are being established. As well as helping wildlife to cross the track, they also have the advantage of acting as an effective water diversion.
– In this way, we ensure that situations do not arise where the water cannot cross the track, explains Aalund.
