In 1995, the residents of Oberlech decided to install an underground tunnel system to handle supplies to and from the village. This first stage of construction took place in early summer 1995, with the main tunnel being opened in autuum 1995. The first underground supplies took place in December 1995. The remaining work on the tunnel and the transfer station were completed in autuum 1996. The return station and approach tunnel were built in summer 1997.

The tunnels measure a total of 770 meters, and have 10 sluices and 8 emergency exits. The approach tunnel is 300 meters long. The transfer stations have a total surface area of more than 3,200 m² and cost approximately EURO 8.5 million.

The Oberlech tunnel system is a unique type of construction and cannot be found at any other european tourist destination.