Kehä

Kehä is a Finnish word meaning “ring” or “belt” and is commonly used to refer to circular road systems that encircle urban areas, most notably the network of ring roads surrounding Finland’s capital, Helsinki. The term is applied to three major highways: Kehä I (Ring I), Kehä II (Ring II) and Kehä III (Ring III). These routes form concentric loops that facilitate traffic flow, reduce congestion in the city centre and provide connections between radial motorways.

Kehä I, the innermost loop, is a partially completed highway that runs roughly 30 km and primarily serves local traffic. Kehä II, also known as the Tampere Highway, extends about 40 km and links the western and eastern suburbs, acting as a key conduit for commuter and freight movement. Kehä III, the outermost belt, is a full‑length motorway of approximately 70 km that connects major highways such as E18, E75 and E55, and serves as the main bypass for long‑distance traffic around Helsinki.

The ring road concept has been integral to Finnish urban planning since the 1960s, promoting decentralisation and providing a framework for suburban development. In addition to transportation, the name “Kehä” appears in various contexts, including commercial brands and cultural projects, where it symbolises continuity and connectivity. The Helsinki ring road system is managed by the Finnish Transport Agency and continues to be expanded and upgraded to meet growing demand and environmental standards.