The Impact of E6 Noise Pollution in Manglerud
For over 30 years, residents of Manglerud in Oslo have been enduring the relentless noise of traffic from the E6 highway. Robert Svoren, a long-time resident, describes it as “hell” and expresses frustration at the growing volume of vehicles—jumping from 20,000 cars daily in the 1980s to a staggering 90,000 today. The noise has become unbearable, making certain areas of his home unlivable.
Community Response to Ongoing Noise Issues
As noise levels continue to disrupt their lives, the Manglerud community is united in demanding action. Svoren points out that the fight for a tunnel beneath the highway began back in 1992, started by local parents concerned for their children’s welfare. “We’ve fought for years for our voices to be heard,” he stated, highlighting the need for urgent government action.
Personal Stories of Distress
Eili Vigestad Berge, a local resident and mother of three, echoes Svoren’s sentiments. She is worried about the impact of the noise on her children, who attend nearby schools. “This is one of the most trafficked roads in the country, it affects our community significantly,” she explains, voicing concerns that the noise pollution hurts the developmental well-being of children.
Health Concerns: Noise and Air Pollution
Beyond noise, residents are equally alarmed by air pollution from the constant stream of vehicles. Dag Bjerke, a member of Bryn Environment Forum, shares his apprehensions about long-term health problems associated with air pollution exacerbated by close proximity to the highway. “People living near the road are unaware of the invisible dangers of air pollution that can lead to serious health issues,” he warns.
Political Promises and Community Frustrations
Over the years, residents have received numerous promises from city officials. In 2019, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration proposed a new 15-kilometer route that included a tunnel. Unfortunately, this plan was scrapped by the Green Party and Labour Party. Svoren, now leader of the grassroots movement “Manglerudtunnelen Nå,” is frustrated. “We feel abandoned by local politicians who have stalled our needs for too long,” he laments.
Calls for Government Action
Residents are appealing directly to the Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, for action. Svoren invites him to experience their daily struggles firsthand, asserting that it would only take a short trip from downtown Oslo. There is an expectation for political leaders to fulfill their commitments toward improving conditions for the residents of Manglerud.
Proposed Solutions and Future Vision
While some residents remain skeptical about the feasibility of previous tunnel plans, a new proposal from OBOS suggests covering a part of the highway to decrease noise and air pollution while also creating space for new housing. Svoren acknowledges that while they are not opposed to the idea, they believe any covering should encompass a larger area to be effective.
Community’s Hope for Change
Despite decades of struggle, the community of Manglerud remains hopeful. By reducing traffic and noise, they believe they can enhance the living conditions in their neighborhood significantly. “We have the infrastructure for public transport already in place, and more housing is needed. Our hopes for a tunnel remain strong,” Berge concludes, embodying the unwavering spirit of Manglerud residents as they continue their fight for a quieter, healthier environment.
