NORWAY: Freight operator CargoNet is to launch a shuttle service on April 17 to transport containers and semi-trailers between Kristiansand and the recently-opened Ganddal terminal near Stavanger.

The train will initially operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays, leaving Stavanger at 05.30 and Kristiansand's Langmeyr yard at 12.30, with a journey time of 4 h.

The service is primarily intended to reduce road traffic, offering environmental benefits to the region, but will also improve transport services for businesses in the area, according to CargoNet. It will augment the existing shuttle services connecting both port cities with Oslo.