Lobautunnel Debate Heats Up in Austria

Published: 2025-03-27

The controversial Lobautunnel project in Vienna has reignited fierce political debate.

The proposed 10-kilometer tunnel, intended to ease traffic in northeast Vienna, faces strong opposition from the Green Party due to environmental concerns.

Former Climate Minister Leonore Gewessler halted the project, citing studies that deemed it the least viable option compared to public transport expansion.

However, the new coalition government, including SPÖ, ÖVP, and Neos, is pushing for its revival.

Critics argue the project is costly, with estimates ranging from €2.4 billion to €6 billion, and environmentally damaging.

Proponents, like Transport Minister Peter Hanke, believe it is necessary for traffic relief.

The Greens continue to protest, emphasizing the need for sustainable alternatives and questioning the project's financial and ecological impact.