Norway’s Vestfold Line: Drammen Station & Double Track Upgrade

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Introduction

Bane NOR has opened the new Drammen station and the double track between Drammen and Kobbervikdalen for traffic, enhancing capacity and scheduling on the 138 km Vestfold Line. The first scheduled train through the new Drammen Tunnel arrived at Drammen Station on 31 August.

Improved Infrastructure

The new double track allows trains to travel at higher speeds. Two railway tracks also enable more frequent departures and greater capacity on the rail network. With six new tracks at Drammen Station and the newly completed double track, the infrastructure allows for greater flexibility in train operations and the potential for more scheduled services over time.

“This is a major milestone for passengers, train operators, and ourselves. The new infrastructure improves flow on the Vestfold Line and through Drammen and will, over time, help deliver more punctual trains throughout the region,” said Jon-Erik Lunøe, Acting CEO of Bane NOR.

The double track between Drammen and Kobbervikdalen – a valley area located in the southern part of Drammen, which lies along the Vestfold Line – spans 10 km and runs through the new Drammen Tunnel. Bane NOR has observed improved punctuality on several new double-track sections built in recent years.

At Drammen Station, Bane NOR has laid additional tracks, built new platforms, and raised the entire station area by 40 centimetres to protect against flooding.

The station has been closed since 28 June while Bane NOR carried out the upgrades. The official opening will take place on 18 September at Strømsø Square.

Project Components

The project began in December 2019 and included the construction of 10 km of new double track from Drammen to Kobbervikdalen, as well as 3 km of new track systems between Drammen and Gulskogen Station.

Due to its complexity, the project comprised four major components. The 7-kilometre double-track Drammen Tunnel consists of 6 km of rock tunnel, a 290-metre soft ground tunnel, and a 540-metre concrete culvert. Drammen Station has been completely rebuilt, featuring six new tracks and platforms, and raised by 40 centimetres to enhance flood protection.

In summary, Bane NOR has constructed a new double track on the Vestfold Line between Drammen Station and Kobbervikdalen, running through a new tunnel in Strømsåsen.

As part of the same project, technical upgrades and adjustments were made at both Gulskogen and Brakerøya stations, and a new city bridge was constructed to span the railway area. Initially allocated a management budget of NOK 12.7 billion (EUR 1 billion) in 2019, the total project cost is now estimated at approximately NOK 13 billion (EUR 1.2 billion) in current prices.

Future Developments

Bane NOR is also building a new 13.6 km double track between Nykirke and Barkåker, north of Tønsberg, on the Vestfold Line. The project also includes a new, modern station at Skoppum, train parking facilities at Barkåker, and upgrades to Tønsberg Station.

Continuous double track will make it possible to run four trains per hour between Oslo and Tønsberg, which will provide added capacity at Drammen Station. Construction began in earnest during the first half of 2020 and is expected to enter service in 2026, allowing four trains per hour between Drammen and Tønsberg.

Environmental Impact

The construction of the double track between Drammen and Kobbervikdalen is a key contribution to achieving national climate and environmental goals. With increased capacity on the Vestfold Line, more people can choose rail over cars and buses, while freight transport also benefits from better conditions.

This project is a crucial step towards modernising Norway’s rail infrastructure to meet the demands of the future. By increasing capacity and improving reliability, it supports the shift towards greener transportation, helping to reduce carbon emissions and ease congestion on roads. Reliable and efficient rail connections are essential for encouraging more people to choose sustainable travel options, contributing to national and regional climate goals.

Conclusion

Bane NOR has opened the new Drammen station and the double track between Drammen and Kobbervikdalen, which includes a 10 km double track and a new tunnel. The project, which began in December 2019, also included station upgrades and cost approximately NOK 13 billion (EUR 1.2 billion). Future plans include a 13.6 km double track between Nykirke and Barkåker, expected to be in service by 2026.

Company Summary

Bane NOR: Bane NOR has opened the new Drammen station and the double track between Drammen and Kobbervikdalen for traffic.

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