Austria Approves Fernpass Tunnel Project with Planned €14 Toll per Trip

The Tirol state government has granted the final environmental approval for the Fernpass Tunnel (B179), a 1.4‑kilometre road tunnel that will bypass the Fernpass mountain pass. The tunnel will feature three traffic lanes – two uphill towards Reutte and one downhill towards Nassreith – plus a service tunnel and a planned toll station. Authorities intend to charge €14 per vehicle, applying the fee to both tourists and local commuters. While the nature‑conservation permit has been issued, water‑ and forest‑law permits are still pending. Construction is expected to begin after the pending permits are secured, with the tunnel slated to improve year‑round traffic flow and safety on the southern approach to the Alps.