Lun, Oct 16th 2023
After 18 months of construction, the new road tunnel at the Pyramids of Euseigne opened in Valais on Saturday.
It is designed to improve safety and comfort.
The 120-metre tunnel was built entirely into the local moraine and replaces the narrow tunnel from 1947 that led through the geological formations, the Valais authorities announced on Saturday. It is intended to improve the safety and comfort of the approximately 3,500 motorists who travel daily on the cantonal road between Sion and Haudères.
The new structure, which is only about 40 metres from the old tunnel, will now also allow lorries and post buses to cross, which was previously not possible in the narrow tunnel. Visitors to the geological site can now see the pyramids safely and without conflicts with road traffic. In addition, the tunnel contributes to the protection of the natural monument of the pyramids, which is listed in the Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments of National Importance.
In 2016, the Valais Grand Council approved a commitment credit of 10.5 million Swiss francs for the construction of the tunnel. On the old section, which is no longer in use, a pedestrian area for visitors to the pyramids is to be set up by 2027. A tourist pavilion is also to be built at the entrance to the village of Euseigne.
©Keystone/SDA
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