Sørlandsbanen

Sørlandsbanen is a railway line in Norway connecting Oslo to Stavanger. It is the southernmost long-distance railway in the country and is an important transportation link for the Sørlandet region. The line was built in stages, with the first section opening in 1879. The entire line was completed in 1944.

The Sørlandsbanen is a single-track railway for most of its length, with some double-track sections near Oslo and Kristiansand. The line passes through varied terrain, including forests, mountains, and along the coast. Major cities and towns served by the Sørlandsbanen include Drammen, Notodden, Porsgrunn, Skien, Kristiansand, and Egersund.

Passenger services on the Sørlandsbanen are operated by Vy, which offers regular connections between Oslo and Stavanger, as well as regional services. The line is also used for freight transport, primarily by CargoNet. The Sørlandsbanen is known for its scenic route, especially the section through the Setesdal valley.

In recent years, there have been discussions and plans for upgrading the Sørlandsbanen, including proposals for electrification and increased speed. These improvements aim to reduce travel times and enhance the efficiency of both passenger and freight services on this vital Norwegian railway line.