The work on construction of the six-km Llogara road tunnel in the south-western region of Vlora is full steam ahead. Prime Minister Edi Rama, accompanied by the Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, also the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, inspected progress of the ongoing work with 4.6 kilometres of the total stretch of the road tunnel already opened by far.

“We are inspecting the first 36 metres of the road tunnel, where the reinforced concrete lining is already underway. We are convinced this part of the project will be completed very soon,” the Deputy Prime Minister Balluku said.

The new infrastructure work is expected to have a major impact on development of the local economy and tourism in Albania’s south, significantly improving driving experience and quality, as well as shortening the drive time so that local and international visitors can reach their preferred destinations easily.

“Construction work hasn’t stopped for a single moment. Although the contract’s deadline was estimated to be 33 months and work kicked off last November, we expect the project to be completed ahead of schedule. According to all projections based on the current progress of work, we expect to see light at the other end of the tunnel by the end of February, so that the tunnel fully opens by then. We are now inspecting the main tunnel dedicated for the traffic, whereas the project, in line with the European technical standards, each tunnel longer than 500 meters, should also include emergency tunnels. The emergency tunnel is being opened according to other standards and it can be adapted to be used as a road tunnel if the traffic increases significantly,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

The tunnel will measure 6km and provide a new road link, replacing Albania’s notorious Llogara Pass, which features many switchbacks and can be particularly treacherous in winter time.

When it opens to traffic, the journey time between Saranda and Vlora will be reduced by around 40 minutes, while road safety will also be improved.

This project is a long-awaited one, which boosts road safety, cuts the distance to the coast and promotes tourism development.

Once completed, by the end of 2024, the tunnel is going to link Saint Eliza Bridge in Dukat with Palasa Bridge on the other side of Llogara.