Finnish VR Group to Operate Problem-Plagued Mälartåg Services
STOCKHOLM – Finnish state-owned railway operator VR Group has been selected to take over operation of the troubled Mälartåg regional rail services in Sweden, effective December 10, 2023. The move follows years of delays, cancellations, and operational issues with the current operator, MTR Mälartåg, and aims to stabilize rail travel for commuters in the Stockholm region.
The takeover addresses a critical need for reliable regional rail service impacting hundreds of thousands of daily commuters across Stockholm, Uppsala, and Västmanland counties. Mälartåg has faced persistent problems since the introduction of new trains in 2016, leading to notable public dissatisfaction and calls for improved performance. VR Group’s appointment signals a shift in strategy, leveraging Finnish expertise in railway operations to revitalize the network. The initial contract is for seven years, with options for extensions.
VR Group will assume obligation for all operational aspects of Mälartåg, including train maintenance, staffing, and service planning. The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) initiated the procurement process after MTR Mälartåg announced its intention not to renew its contract. VR Group’s bid was deemed the most economically advantageous, considering both price and quality.
“We are pleased to have been chosen to operate Mälartåg and look forward to working with the Swedish Transport Administration and other stakeholders to deliver a reliable and high-quality service for passengers,” said VR Group CEO Tero Wallin in a statement. “We have extensive experience in operating safe and efficient rail services in challenging conditions, and we are confident that we can address the issues that have plagued Mälartåg.”
The transition is expected to be phased, with VR Group gradually taking over operations and implementing improvements. Passengers can expect continued service during the handover period. Trafikverket will closely monitor VR Group’s performance and hold them accountable for meeting agreed-upon service levels. The long-term goal is to restore public trust in Mälartåg and provide a sustainable regional rail network for the future.
