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22 August 2025
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Aug 22, 2025Trackopedia
LTG Infra, the infrastructure subsidiary of Lithuanian state railway LTG, has awarded three construction contracts worth a total of €235 million for the expansion of the Lithuanian section of the major Rail Baltica project between Kaunas and Zeimiai. Under the first contract, Leonhard Weiss will relocate 10 km of European standard gauge track between Sveicarija and Zeimiai for €13.9 million, with 8.8 km to be completed by the end of 2025 and the remaining work to be finished in early 2027. The contract for the construction of an 8.5 km embankment between Kaunas and Sveicarija was awarded to HISK for €97.8 million and is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2028. Another 10.4 km section of embankment was awarded to a joint venture (JV) between Fegda and Tilsta for €123.5 million, also due for completion in early 2028. The projects are jointly financed by the EU and the Lithuanian national budget and are part of the accelerated implementation of Rail Baltica in Lithuania.
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Pm Modi Inaugurates Final Phase Of Mumbai Metro Line-3 And Launches Integrated Mobility App “Mumbai One”Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase-2B of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 (Aqua Line), stretching from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, built at a cost of Rs. 12,200 crore. He also launched “Mumbai One,” India’s first integrated mobility app. Together, the fully underground metro and the app mark a major leap toward seamless, digital-first commuting across Mumbai.
Introduction:
Mumbai entered a new era of connectivity and convenience as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the final phase of Mumbai Metro Line-3, also known as Aqua line and launched the “Mumbai One” Integrated Common Mobility App, creating India’s most comprehensive public transport network under one digital platform. This marked the completion of the city’s first and only fully underground metro corridor.
With the completion of the Aqua Line, Mumbai now boasts its first fully underground metro corridor, stretching 33.5 km from Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey JVLR, spanning 27 stations along the route. Constructed at a total cost exceeding Rs. 37,270 crore, this metro line is designed to transform urban transport for millions of commuters by reducing congestion, cutting travel time, and improving air quality.
Completion of the Final Phase:
The inauguration of Phase 2B, stretching from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, completed the last leg of the Aqua Line, which has been years in the making. The newly opened section, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 12,200 crore, now provides South Mumbai with its first-ever underground metro connectivity.
For the first time, key heritage and commercial districts like Kalbadevi, Girgaon, Fort, Kala Ghoda, and Marine Drive are linked directly through the metro network. Commuters can now reach Aarey JVLR from Cuffe Parade in under an hour, cutting travel time by more than half compared to traditional road routes.
This stretch also enhances accessibility to Mumbai’s central business and administrative zones, including the Bombay High Court, Mantralaya, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), and Nariman Point, giving professionals and visitors a smoother and more efficient travel option.
Features and Benefits of Line-3:
The Mumbai Metro Line-3 not only promises to reduce vehicular traffic and pollution but also supports the city’s sustainability goals. By offering quick, safe, and reliable travel, it is expected to become the preferred choice for daily commuters and tourists alike.
The line passes through important intersections such as Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) — a major commercial hub — and provides a direct link to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, ensuring smooth intermodal connectivity.
A Leap Toward Integrated Digital Mobility – “Mumbai One” App:
Coinciding with the inauguration, the Prime Minister launched “Mumbai One”, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to revolutionize how citizens move across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). It is India’s first integrated common mobility app, bringing together 11 public transport operators (PTOs) under a single, unified system.
These include:
With this integration, “Mumbai One” makes it possible for commuters to plan and execute entire multimodal journeys using a single digital interface.
Key Features of the “Mumbai One” App:
The “Mumbai One” app offers a host of features aimed at enhancing commuter experience and streamlining mobility across the city.
The app aims to create a truly integrated and commuter-centric experience, allowing passengers to plan, book, and manage their entire journey through one platform. With its unified approach, “Mumbai One” enables smooth transitions between transport modes, reduces dependency on cash or paper tickets, and promotes a cleaner, faster, and smarter travel culture in India’s financial capital.
A Symbol of Modern Infrastructure:
The Mumbai Metro Line-3 represents not just a technological feat, but also a commitment to sustainable urban growth. By reducing traffic congestion and curbing air pollution, the metro contributes significantly to improving Mumbai’s quality of life and environmental health.
This fully underground corridor has also been engineered to preserve the city’s heritage structures while minimizing surface disruption. With modern safety systems, noise reduction technologies, and energy-efficient trains, the Aqua Line aligns with global standards in urban transport.
Another Step Toward a Connected India:
The inauguration of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 marks a defining moment in India’s ongoing journey toward world-class urban infrastructure. It demonstrates how technology, design, and governance can come together to transform one of the world’s most densely populated cities into a model of efficient, sustainable urban living.
By linking business hubs, entertainment zones, and the airport in a single seamless corridor, the Aqua Line redefines the city’s rhythm — ensuring that travel time becomes productive time.
Conclusion:
With the inauguration of Mumbai Metro Line-3 and the launch of the Mumbai One App, the city steps into a new era of smart, sustainable mobility. The project not only strengthens connectivity and convenience but also reflects India’s growing vision of modern urban transformation — efficient, inclusive, and future-ready.
Source: Mumbai Metro | Image Credit: Mumbai Metro
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09 October 20255 min readPm Modi Inaugurates Final Phase Of Mumbai Metro Line-3 And Launches Integrated Mobility App “Mumbai One”
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09 October 2025
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Los Angeles Metro Makes $1.5 Billion Major MoveThe Los Angeles Metro (LA Metro) is in the news with its ambitious, highly acclaimed project that radically strengthens the region's transportation infrastructure, sustainability, and mobility. 1.5 billion dollar The new section of the A Line, which extends to Pomona and was completed with a massive budget, has integrated key cities in the San Gabriel Valley into the metro network. The project strengthens connections in the region while also regional development and sustainability is seen as a strategic investment.
This extension of the LA Metro A Line has entered service nine miles (about 14.5 km) long and Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne and the final stop Pomona NorthIt connects to the subway network, seamlessly extending rail service from Long Beach via downtown Los Angeles (Union Station) to Pomona.
Passenger transportation on the new line September 19, 2025 It officially opened on September 30th, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held with great enthusiasm from local residents. The extension significantly reduces travel time for passengers; they can now travel from Union Station to Pomona. in just over an hour What's more, trains operate at short eight-minute intervals during rush hour, allowing passengers to benefit from faster and more frequent services.
in Pomona North Metrolink's San Bernardino Line This extension, connecting to the Los Angeles area, offers convenient travel not only within the Los Angeles area but also throughout the Inland Empire. It also significantly improves daily transportation for thousands of students at nearby colleges and universities along the route.
Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Stephanie WigginsWiggins stated that the project “creates the potential for over one million residents.” Wiggins added that increased accessibility benefits regional economies and encourages public transportation throughout the region. cleaner air He emphasized that it provides.
The new stations are designed to support modern and sustainable mobility. Each station has parking, bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations Additionally, thanks to integration with Foothill Transit buses, passengers can travel non-stop.
The $1.5 billion project, largely funded by county sales taxes and state subsidies, launched in 2020. This investment is part of LA Metro's 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games It is also fully compatible with the long-term mobility planning it has prepared for.
The project also revives the region's transportation history. The current crossing was once the site of Pacific Electric's famous railway before it was retired in 1951. To Their Red Wagons (Red Cars). Today, this historic line is home to state-of-the-art light rail trains, providing modern and green transportation brought it back.
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06 October 20253 min readLos Angeles Metro Makes $1.5 Billion Major Move
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06 October 2025
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Asian Development Bank Approves $190 Million Funding For Indore Metro Rail ProjectThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a $190 million loan for Indore’s metro rail project. The initiative will build an underground metro line, modernize public transport, and create opportunities for women and marginalized communities, aiming to reduce pollution, improve mobility, and foster inclusive growth in Madhya Pradesh’s largest city.
Introduction:
Indore, the bustling commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, is set for a major transformation in its public transport landscape. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $190 million loan to support the Indore Metro Rail Project, a move expected to ease congestion, cut pollution, and empower vulnerable communities.
A Game-Changer for Urban Mobility:
The approved project focuses on the construction of an 8.62-kilometer underground metro line with seven modern stations. This crucial stretch will connect Indore’s highly congested areas to the city’s airport, significantly reducing travel time and easing traffic bottlenecks. Designed with state-of-the-art features, the stations will include:
According to ADB’s Country Director for India, Mio Oka, “Indore’s rapid urbanization has led to congestion, pollution, and limited mobility for vulnerable populations. This project will not only modernize public transport but also empower women and marginalized communities.”
Promoting Inclusive Growth:
The metro project goes beyond mobility—it is designed to be an engine of inclusive economic development. Women and self-help groups will have access to commercial spaces at select stations, providing new platforms for entrepreneurship. Training, internship, and capacity-building programs will also be introduced to increase women’s participation in the transport sector.
Additionally, the project’s design ensures safety audits and monitoring of ridership data to continuously improve user experience.
Environmental Benefits:
Indore, like many Indian cities, struggles with deteriorating air quality due to rising vehicular traffic. The new metro system is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 12,414 tons of CO₂ equivalent annually. Cleaner air, reduced dependence on private vehicles, and improved connectivity are expected to enhance the city’s livability.
Seamless Connectivity through Multimodal Integration:
The initiative emphasizes multimodal integration by linking the metro with existing bus and feeder services, educational hubs, commercial markets, and other transit networks. A detailed multimodal study will align the metro with Indore’s airport, railway, and bus terminals. This will ensure smooth transfers and create a more efficient, passenger-friendly ecosystem.
The project also ties into Indore’s Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) policy, which aims to promote sustainable growth by developing residential and commercial spaces around high-capacity transit corridors.
Implementation Timeline:
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) has been entrusted with implementing the project. Operations are expected to begin by January 2030, aligning with Indore’s aspirations to become a smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban hub.
Conclusion:
The $190 million ADB-backed Indore Metro project is more than an infrastructure upgrade—it is a blueprint for sustainable, inclusive urban growth. With modern mobility solutions, environmental safeguards, and opportunities for women and marginalized groups, Indore is poised to become a model smart city, driving development while safeguarding its communities and environment.
Source: ADB – Press Release | Image Credit: ADB
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04 October 20253 min readAsian Development Bank Approves $190 Million Funding For Indore Metro Rail Project
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04 October 2025
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€45,4 Billion Investment To Be Made In Swedish RailwaysThe Swedish Government has announced an ambitious financing plan to renew the country's railway infrastructure and ensure its sustainability into the future. In the period covering the years 2026-2037, total to Swedish railways 45,4 billion euros This large budget aims to modernize the network, improve sustainability, and pay off long-term maintenance debts that have accumulated over the years.
This plan, announced by Swedish Transport Infrastructure, is expected to be approved by the government in the spring of 2026.
The allocated budget of 45,4 billion euros will be distributed under two main headings:
The most important priority of this plan is to reach the target by 2025. Infrastructure maintenance debt reaching 7,2 billion euros The long-term goal of the management is to reduce these debts in order to establish a financially sound basis for future activities. It is to be completely abolished by 2050.
Another technological step that is given great importance within the scope of the plan is European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) ERTMS is expected to be widespread by 2042, covering high-density lines and both safety and operational reliability is aimed to increase.
In addition, some projects are planned to transfer funds to areas that will provide higher returns. will be rescheduled or canceled. Resources are allocated to higher-yielding areas for passenger and freight transportation, climate adaptation ve denser network capacity will focus.
The Swedish Transport Administration emphasised the vital importance of a safe railway network for the country's national security:
“The transportation sector must increase its capacity to support wartime peacetime services that are vital in times of war, military preparedness, and ultimately, war.”
Minister of Infrastructure Andreas CarlsonCarlson stated that only 10-15% of the debt had been allocated by the fall of 2024. management and resource constraints He added that he was not in a position to immediately cover larger budgets due to the current situation.
Experts say the success of this plan depends not only on political support but also on the efficient allocation of resources. This major investment will enable Sweden to compete across Europe. a modern and sustainable railway infrastructure network will contribute to its development.
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04 October 20252 min read€45,4 Billion Investment To Be Made In Swedish Railways
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04 October 2025
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La Metro Extends Lrt Line A To 93 KmOn 19th September 2025, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) put into operation a 14.7 km extension of light rail transit (LRT) line A from the APU/Citrus College station to Pomona in Los Angeles County. This brings the total length of the line to 93 km with 48 stops, making it the longest LRT line in the world. The extension includes four new stations in Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne/Fairplex and Pomona North and allows transfers to the suburban rail line San Bernardino on the Metrolink network. The construction costs of EUR 1.3 billion (USD 1.5 billion) were financed by local sales taxes, state climate funds and a EUR 254.4 million grant from the Transit & Intercity Rail Capital programme. The design-build contract awarded to the Kiewit-Parsons joint venture in 2019 contracted in July 2020. A planned extension to Montclair was halted when the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority withdrew its funding.
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03 October 20251 min readLa Metro Extends Lrt Line A To 93 Km
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03 October 2025
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Tazara Railway Reborn With $1,4 Billion Chinese InvestmentFollowing the signing of a $1,4 billion strategic agreement between Zambia, Tanzania and China, TAZARA Railway The Tanzania-Zambia Railway is turning a new page. The project, which includes both improving rail infrastructure and purchasing new rolling stock, aims to revitalize the importance of this historic transport corridor in regional trade flows.
Reconstruction project in Zambia Kapiri Mposhi with Tanzania Dar es Salaam between the ports 1.860 km It includes the comprehensive rehabilitation of the route, which is 300 km long. The core works of the project are, CRCC within its structure China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation will be carried out by.
Details and objectives of the investment are as follows:
This railway, especially Zambian copper It was a vital export artery for the country, connecting the landlocked country directly to the port of Dar es Salaam without passing through South Africa, which was politically isolated at the time.
TAZARA Railway, when it first entered service in 1975, China's largest overseas infrastructure project at the time This project was to minimise Zambia's dependence on apartheid South Africa China-Africa friendship was a symbol.
However, from the 1990s onwards, railway traffic and infrastructure conditions began to gradually decline due to new routes in maritime transport.
Restructuring today geopolitics It is of particular importance. As China consolidates its presence in Africa, Tanzania and Zambia are also seeking to revitalize transit flows. The project's expected impacts include:
The role of the operator Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) The TAZARA Railway renovation is therefore seen as more than just an infrastructure project; it is also a strategic measure for regional development. This cooperation demonstrates the intention of African countries and China to work together to reshape global trade flows.
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03 October 20252 min readTazara Railway Reborn With $1,4 Billion Chinese Investment
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03 October 2025
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Morocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway PlanMorocco has launched a comprehensive railway initiative to meet the transportation needs of the future. King Mohammed VI inaugurated the railway. 20 billion dirhams (approximately 1,8 billion euros) The regional rail program, worth $1,000, aims to improve transportation in metropolitan and urban areas. This initiative is based on the country's previously commissioned 430 km Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed rail line Building on its success, the total aims to move Morocco towards a sustainable and integrated transport model. 96 billion dirhams One of the most important parts of the nationwide project worth .
At the heart of the project are three major transport networks that will connect multimodal station construction includes:
These stations are annually To 12 million passengers It will provide seamless integration between high-speed trains, regional lines and urban transportation vehicles, with the capacity to serve Casablanca-South Station, Casa-Port and Mohammed V Airport It will be a key point for the “Aero-Express” train that will connect the two cities.
The program also expands the suburban network. Ten new suburban train stations will be built and five existing ones will be renovated. In total, 92 km three lines in length, each Every 7,5 minutes It will serve 150.000 passengers daily. This expansion will improve the quality of life by easing urban traffic.
Morocco is supporting this massive infrastructure investment with South Korean manufacturers 48 automatic train sets from Hyundai Rotem For these trains, each with a capacity of 1.000 passengers and capable of reaching a speed of 160 km/h, 7 billion dirhams payment will be made. As an important step, Morocco a domestic railway industry A production facility will be established in the country in line with the goal of creating a domestic market and export potential in the medium term.
Financing of projects, National Office of Railways (ONCF) ve Casablanca-Settat Regional Council The completion of the projects aims to provide direct and indirect employment for thousands of people and reduce CO₂ emissions through public transportation solutions. This program goes beyond Casablanca, and extends to Morocco. Sustainable mobility and regional connectivity by 2030 reflects your vision.
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27 September 20252 min readMorocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway Plan
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27 September 2025
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$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In MoroccoThe construction of a modern and sustainable transportation network in Morocco continues unabated. King Mohammed VI, on Wednesday Casablanca metropolitan area total for MAD 20 billion (USD 2 billion) He presided over the launch of large-scale railway projects worth over $1 billion. This massive investment is a key part of the country's broader railway development programme of MAD 96 billion (US$9,6 billion). The projects are part of one of Africa's most ambitious railway initiatives, the foundation stone of which the King laid in April. 430-kilometer Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed train (LGV) is complementary to the line.
These new investments, Great Casablanca In addition to addressing future mobility needs, the program aligns with Morocco's national strategy to promote low-carbon and sustainable transport. The program encompasses a wide range of infrastructure improvements, from the construction of next-generation stations to the renewal of existing lines and the procurement of modern train sets.
The initiative aims to fundamentally transform Casablanca's railway infrastructure. Within the scope of the project, three new generation stationsTen additional metropolitan stations and five existing facilities will be rehabilitated. Additionally, 260 kilometers of new railway lines will be laid, and 50 engineering structures, two technical centers, and five maintenance workshops will be constructed. These comprehensive infrastructure projects will significantly increase transportation efficiency and capacity in the region.
The projects are being financed 70 percent by the National Railways Office (ONCF) and 30 percent by the Casablanca region. One of the most important components of the investment is MAD 700 million ($70 million) new construction started with a budget Casablanca-South stationThis station will serve both high-speed trains, regional and airport shuttles, with a capacity of 12 million passengers per year. It will also provide a strategic connection to other modes of transportation, such as trams, buses, and taxis. intermodal center will become.
As part of the program, two more major stations will be built. Hassan II Grand Stadium in Benslimane station MAD 450 million ($45 million) While it will be able to serve 12 million passengers annually with the financing, the new Mohammed V International Airport station is MAD 300 million ($30 million) It will have a passenger capacity of 5 million with a budget. These three new stations will also 24 in months The project is expected to be completed quickly, demonstrating the rapid pace of implementation. These stations will not only manage daily passenger flows but also provide critical infrastructure for major sporting and cultural events Morocco will host.
One of the most striking details of the projects is the supply of modern train sets. South Korean Hyundai Rotem Cooperation with Morocco for MAD 7 billion (USD 700 million) 48 modern train sets These trains, each capable of carrying over 1.000 passengers and reaching speeds of 160 km/h, will form the operational backbone of the new network. The agreement is more than just a purchase and sale transaction; Hyundai Rotem also commits to establishing a production facility in Morocco. This is a strategic move that will help establish a local rail ecosystem in Morocco and pave the way for potential exports in the medium term.
All these projects reflect King Mohammed VI's long-term vision for a modern, integrated, and sustainable railway network. The program aims not only to improve transportation efficiency and safety, but also to create jobs, stimulate urban development, and reduce carbon emissions. This revolutionary transformation, expected to be completed by 2030, will prepare Morocco for global events such as the 2030 FIFA World Cup. a continental leader in sustainable transportation will bring it to position.
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26 September 20253 min read$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In Morocco
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26 September 2025
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Caf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro ContractsCAF has signed three contracts with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) to modernise and maintain rolling stock on Cairo Metro Lines 1 and 2. Valued at more than €450 million, the agreements strengthen the Spanish company’s presence in Egypt and consolidate its partnership with NAT and the Egyptian Ministry of Transport.
The projects will be financed through Spain’s Fund for the Internationalisation of Business (FIEM), managed by the State Secretariat for Trade. The FIEM promotes public financing for landmark international projects led by Spanish firms, supporting the export of advanced technology and services.
CAF will carry out the complete overhaul of 39 metro units operating on Line 2, extending their service life by 20 years. The works include:
Alongside modernisation, CAF will provide 10 years of full maintenance for the 39 Line 2 units, covering system resets and mechanical overhauls. The maintenance programme will run in parallel with the modernisation process.
In addition, CAF will also undertake the 10-year maintenance of 23 Line 1 units, currently being refurbished under a contract signed in 2021. This maintenance agreement will come into effect once the modernisation work is completed.
The new contracts build on CAF’s ongoing work for NAT, which includes the rehabilitation of Line 1 units and the refurbishment of the Kozzika maintenance depot. They highlight CAF’s ability to deliver integrated rail solutions that combine modernisation with long-term support services, enhancing urban mobility in major cities.
“By investing in advanced rolling stock modernisation and maintenance, CAF is helping improve the passenger experience and supporting the Egyptian government’s drive to expand and modernise its public transport network,” the company said.
Egypt is pursuing an ambitious programme to expand and improve its transport infrastructure, making it a key growth market for international railway suppliers. The support of FIEM funding has enabled Spanish companies to take part in these projects, promoting the competitiveness of national industries in passenger transport systems.
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26 September 20252 min readCaf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro Contracts
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26 September 2025
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The World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been LaunchedNokia, the technology giant originating in Germany and Finland, announced the launch of the world's first commercial 5G rail network operating in the 1900 MHz frequency band, in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn, on September 15. This innovation provides a critical foundation for smart maintenance, rapid recovery after failure, and automated train operations.
New infrastructure, Nokia AirScale supported by radio equipment 5G Standalone It uses the core network and includes advanced features such as automatic error management, self-healing, and real-time monitoring for high availability. The system was launched at DB's digital railway test site in the Erzgebirge region of Germany.
Important steps in transition to FRMCS This step, which is among the latest developments, supports tests of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) conducted under Europe's FP2-MORANE-2 program. FRMCS is positioned as a 5G-based successor to the legacy GSM-R communications system, enabling instantaneous and secure communication between drivers and signaling systems. This not only ensures the safety of close-range train travel but also enables increased capacity.
Nokia is working on a similar transformation not only in Germany but also with ProRail in the Netherlands. The goal is to seamlessly transition to FRMCS by migrating the existing GSM-R core network to the cloud. This process aims to strengthen network security, reduce maintenance costs, and accelerate Europe's digital railway transformation.
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25 September 20252 min readThe World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been Launched
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25 September 2025
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Wabtec Inks $4.2B Locomotive Order For Kazakhstan'S National RailwayWabtec Corp
. yesterday announced a $4.2 billion agreement with
Kazakhstan Temir Zholy
(KTZ), the national railway of Kazakhstan, to deliver Evolution Series locomotives and provide long-term service support.
The multiyear order marks the largest locomotive agreement in Wabtec’s history, Wabtec officials said in a press release.
Wabtec will deliver 300 Evolution Series ES44Aci heavy-haul locomotive kits over the next decade. Ordered as part of KTZ’s ongoing rail expansion and fleet renewal, the new locomotives are designed to operate in the demanding weather conditions and mountainous terrain of Kazakhstan, as well as improve fuel efficiency and operate for longer periods between maintenance overhauls. The maintenance services agreements will cover the new units and KTZ’s existing railroad fleet over a 15-year period.
Kazakhstan represents Wabtec’s regional center of excellence, and this deal further enhances the partnership with KTZ strengthening the company’s presence and leadership as a rail technology partner and innovator in the market, Wabtec officials said.
“For over two decades, our partnership with KTZ has been critical in transforming Kazakhstan’s rail industry,” said Wabtec President and CEO Rafael Santana. “This historic agreement embodies KTZ’s visionary approach for the country’s rail network as the primary link between Europe and Asia. By delivering advanced locomotives and long-term service solutions, Wabtec is a proud partner in Kazakhstan’s progress, helping to unlock the region’s enormous potential and developing the engineering competencies in the country’s railway industry.”
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24 September 20252 min readWabtec Inks $4.2B Locomotive Order For Kazakhstan'S National Railway
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24 September 2025
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Multi-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway DepotA major milestone in the rollout of one of Britain’s newest train fleets has been reached following an £80 million investment into a key railway depot in Bletchley.
London Northwestern Railway (LNR) and Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, officially announced the completion of the redevelopment of Bletchley Traction Maintenance Depot (TMD) alongside local representatives and members of the rail industry at a special event on Friday 12 September.
The train operator carried out the works to enable the site to stable and maintain LNR’s new fleet of class 730/2 electric trains which entered service on routes to and from London Euston over the summer.
The fleet, which is made up of 36 five-carriage trains, brings an overall 20% uplift in capacity to the West Coast Main Line and will carry millions of passengers to and from the capital each year. They feature open gangways, charging points at every seat and intelligent air conditioning.
To run these modern trains, Bletchley Depot’s main shed has been extended with new modernised carriage servicing sidings, improved inspection facilities and new train lifting equipment. The overhead electrified lines have been replaced and a new overhead gantry now offers roof access to the full length of the train.
The improvements will benefit passengers in dozens of locations across the country, with the new fleet serving routes between Crewe and London and Northampton and London.
John Doughty, engineering director at London Northwestern Railway, said: “We are so pleased to celebrate the completion of these important and transformative upgrades. Having cutting edge equipment and more space in our sidings means our trains can be serviced and maintained more quickly, so we can offer a more reliable service for our passengers.”
Lord Peter Hendy, the Minister of State for Rail, said: “I’m delighted to see the transformation that has taken place at Bletchley depot, made possible by significant government support and a great collaborative effort between London Northwestern Railway and its delivery partners.
“The new trains entering service will provide a much better experience for passengers along the route, connecting millions of people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities. I look forward to seeing their smooth introduction being completed and enjoying a journey myself in the coming months.”
Bletchley TMD also maintains and stables the Class 150 fleet which runs on the Marston Vale line from Bletchley to Bedford, as well as the trains which will serve the East West Rail route from Oxford to Milton Keynes.
The upgrades were primarily funded by rolling stock company, Porterbrook, with additional support from the Department for Transport, and were carried out by Taylor Woodrow.
They come as part of a major £1billion investment into new trains and infrastructure by LNR and its sister company West Midlands Railway. Separate upgrade work is underway at the company’s depot in Tyseley in Birmingham.
Stefan Rose, chief investment officer at Porterbrook, said: “Working in partnership with London Northwestern Railway and the Department for Transport, these impressive upgrades highlight the important role that private finance can play in maintaining and enhancing rail infrastructure to deliver a better service for passengers.”
For more information on LNR’s investment programme, visit www.lnr.uk/newtrains.
Rail Business Daily
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16 September 20253 min readMulti-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway Depot
Rail Business Daily
16 September 2025
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