Rail Baltica project Advances with €38.3M Design Contract
Table of Contents
VILNIUS, Lithuania – A significant milestone has been reached in the Rail Baltica project as RB Rail, the coordinating joint venture, and Lithuanian railways (LTG) Infra have awarded a €38.3 million (approximately $44.4 million USD) contract to Deutsche Bahn Engineering & Consulting.This contract will cover the design of a crucial 100-kilometer stretch of electrified, double-track European gauge railway connecting Lithuania to Poland.
The new railway line will run from the Lithuanian-Polish border, thru Marijampole, and terminate near Kaunas (Jiesia), lithuania’s second-largest city. Deutsche Bahn Engineering & Consulting, a subsidiary of the German Deutsche Bahn group, will be responsible for the detailed design of this vital link.
Lithuanian Minister of Transport and Communications, Eugenijus Sabutis, emphasized the strategic importance of this connection, stating, “The Rail Baltica link with Poland is our gateway to western Europe. We expect it to be the first route where high-speed, European standard-gauge trains will begin operating.”
This new infrastructure will seamlessly integrate the Baltic States into the broader European standard gauge rail network. The project incorporates advanced traffic control and signaling systems designed to enhance train speed and efficiency.Importantly, the existing railway line, constructed a decade ago, will continue to serve freight transportation needs, including the movement of military mobility cargo.
the Rail Baltica project, aiming to connect the Baltic countries with central Europe, remains on track for completion by 2030. The Lithuania-Poland section is specifically targeted for completion by 2028. This enterprising undertaking promises to revolutionize transportation across the region, fostering economic growth and strengthening regional connectivity.
Rail Baltica: A Historical overview
The Rail Baltica project represents a long-term vision to integrate the Baltic States – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – into the european railway network. Historically, the region’s railway infrastructure was built to a different gauge (width) than the standard gauge used in most of Europe, creating a barrier to seamless cross-border rail travel. The project dates back to the early 2000s, with formal agreements and funding secured in the following years.
The initiative is co-financed by the European Union, demonstrating the EU’s commitment to regional development and infrastructure connectivity. Beyond passenger travel,Rail Baltica is expected to significantly boost freight transport,reducing reliance on road transport and promoting lasting logistics. The project also addresses strategic security concerns by enhancing military mobility within the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rail Baltica
-
What is the primary goal of the Rail Baltica project?
The main goal is to integrate the Baltic States into the European standard gauge railway network, improving connectivity and facilitating trade and travel.
-
How much is the contract awarded to Deutsche Bahn Engineering & Consulting worth?
The contract is valued at €38.3 million (approximately $44.4 million USD).
-
What section of the railway will Deutsche bahn Engineering & Consulting be designing?
They will design the 100-kilometer stretch from the Lithuanian-Polish border, through Marijampole, to near Kaunas (Jiesia).
-
When is the lithuania-Poland section of Rail Baltica expected to be completed?
The Lithuania-Poland section is targeted for completion by 2028.