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Rail Baltica Announces Procurement Plan For 2025
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Announces Procurement Plan For 2025To keep potential suppliers and partners informed about procurement priorities for 2025, the Rail Baltica global project is providing a comprehensive overview of ongoing and upcoming procurement activities.   These procurements focus on essential services that drive the advancement of the Rail Baltica project, covering key areas such as superstructure construction, environmental assessments, and design work for specific infrastructure elements and facilities. Several procurements have already been initiated, including the design for Soodevahe-Muuga and the Rail Baltica Muuga freight terminal (Phase II), the design of the Lemme River railway bridge, and the design of eco-ducts at Loigu, Treimani, and Piiri. Additionally, the Pärnu-Kabli Environmental Impact Assessment within the design section has been launched, along with internal audit services for 2025-2026 and other procurements supporting project implementation across the three Baltic States.  Aiga Benfelde, Acting Head of the Procurement Department at RB Rail, highlighted the significance of market engagement in the upcoming procurement process. She emphasized that with a network of over 400 companies, early and proactive engagement with the market is crucial. “Open communication and collaboration with potential partners are key to achieving a successful procurement outcome. Rail Baltica team is committed to engaging with the market well in advance of the formal procurement process, ensuring transparency at every stage. We encourage all qualified and interested businesses to reach out and explore potential opportunities.”  For a more comprehensive look at upcoming procurements, including information on contracting authorities and expected start dates, please visit the official Rail Baltica website: Rail Baltica Procurements.  November 2024 marked a financial milestone for Rail Baltica, with an additional €1.4 billion secured from the Connecting Europe Facility. In total, the project has now secured more than €4 billion, with up to 85% of the eligible costs funded by the CEF and the remaining amount co-financed by the Baltic states. This year, the project aims to further increase this funding by applying for an additional EU financing call of more than €300 million. Meanwhile, alternative financing options, including public-private partnerships, are actively being explored.
railway
Oct 02, 2025
Rail Baltica: The People Behind The Vision. Birgit Vanaveski
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica: The People Behind The Vision. Birgit VanaveskiRail Baltica is a railway infrastructure megaproject that spans across several countries. The depth of skills and expertise required to successfully execute a greenfield project of this caliber is extensive and would not be possible without our diverse team of professionals.  Welcome back to our series, “Rail Baltica: The People Behind the Vision,” where we introduce you to the members of the Rail Baltica global project team. These individuals are the driving force advancing the Rail Baltica project with their professionalism, dedication, and passion for this project.  Birgit Vanaveski, Health and Safety Manager, Rail Baltic Estonia  This week, we are excited to introduce our colleague Birgit Vanaveski from Rail Baltic Estonia, where she serves as the Health and Safety Manager. In her role, Birgit brings invaluable expertise in maintaining safety standards and ensuring smooth project operations. In this interview, she shares her perspective on health and safety, as well as her passion for contributing to the success of the Rail Baltica project.  When did you join the Rail Baltica project and what inspired you to become a part of the team?   I joined Rail Baltic Estonia in September 2023, shortly after returning to Estonia following nearly six years in Australia. During my time there, I had the opportunity to work as a Safety and Environment Manager for one of the largest privately owned bus operators, managing depots and workshops across two states. After that experience, I was looking for a new opportunity and a team I would enjoy just as much. Rail Baltic has always been on my radar, and I have been interested in the project from the start. In fact, I applied for an Environmental Specialist position back in 2017, but I did not get the role due to my limited experience in the industry at that time. It is a great reminder that a “no” at one point can eventually turn into a “yes.”  What is it about the rail industry that you love?   Possibilities! Possibilities for travel, economic growth and the sense of security and stability that it will offer through better connectivity with Europe. I am passionate about transportation and infrastructure with its potential to shape the future. The rail industry is such a dynamic and critical part of sustainable development, especially here in Estonia with the Rail Baltic project. I love that rail not only connects people and cities but also serves as a key enabler for economic growth and environmental sustainability. There is something incredibly satisfying about being part of a project that is literally building the future, connecting the Baltic States to the rest of Europe. It is a challenging and rewarding field where innovation and engineering meet real-world impact.  In your opinion, what is the recipe for success, for team, career, or otherwise?  Success, for me, is built on three main pillars: trust, collaboration, and continuous learning. In a team, it is crucial to foster a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. I think it is important to remain curious and adaptable—do not be afraid to take on new challenges, learn from others, and continuously evolve your skill set. Being open to change and having a clear sense of purpose in your work can make a significant difference. You cannot have a successful career if you are stuck in the same spot—whether it is professionally or because your chair’s become so comfortable you have forgotten what moving feels like. And never forget that success is not just about achieving your own goals, but also helping your team and colleagues succeed along the way. This I would call success both professionally and personally.  What do you see as the challenges to attracting more women into rail, and what do you think could be done to make a difference?   One of the challenges in attracting more women into rail is that the industry has historically been male-dominated, and there can still be stereotypes about what roles women are suited for in this field. It is crucial to challenge those perceptions and provide strong female role models who can inspire the next generation. Companies and projects like Rail Baltic are already making strides by promoting diversity and inclusion. I believe we need to continue making the industry more welcoming by fostering an environment where women feel supported and encouraged to pursue all areas of rail—from engineering and technical roles to leadership positions. Furthermore, promoting work-life balance, offering mentorship programs, and showcasing women’s successes in rail can be great steps to making a difference.  What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of this mega project?   The most challenging aspect of a project like Rail Baltic is definitely coordinating the complexity and scale across multiple countries and stakeholders. The project spans Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which means aligning the various national regulations, timelines, and local interests while maintaining a common vision. It is a bit like trying to get three chefs in different kitchens to make the same dish at the same time. Add in the logistical challenges of integrating new infrastructure with existing systems, and it becomes a truly intricate puzzle. But, with the right team and clear communication, these challenges are what make the project exciting and rewarding.  In your career, what is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?   I think the biggest challenge I have faced in my career has been stepping into roles that required me to expand my skill set beyond my comfort zone, while also finding my footing in Australia. There, I was often seen as an outsider due to my nationality, and as a young female in a male-dominated industry like transportation, I had to work even harder to prove myself. The same challenges have presented themselves in the construction and rail sectors here in Estonia. It is not always easy, but overcoming those moments of self-doubt and pushing through the obstacles is where real growth happens. Along the way, I have also learned the value of asking questions and maintaining the right attitude—being open to learning from others rather than assuming you know best. This mindset has been crucial in navigating these challenges successfully.
railway
Jul 02, 2025
Rail Baltica Launches Global Newsletter To Inform On Key Developments
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Launches Global Newsletter To Inform On Key DevelopmentsRail Baltica is introducing a new newsletter to provide regular updates on the project’s key milestones, progress, and strategic developments. As the project enters full-scale construction, this newsletter will serve as a reliable source of information on Rail Baltica’s advancement toward delivering a high-speed railway that enhances European connectivity. Rail Baltica progress: on track for 43% of the mainline to be construction-ready and under development by the end of 2025 The Rail Baltica project has officially entered full-scale construction, with mainline development underway across all three Baltic countries. By the end of 2025, 43% of the mainline is expected to be construction-ready and actively under development, following the project’s phased implementation strategy. Marko Kivila, interim CEO of RB Rail AS, emphasized the importance of this phase: “In 2024, Rail Baltica focused on several highly strategic priorities while preparing for large-scale construction. Now, the project has fully entered the construction phase, with mainline development steadily progressing across all three Baltic countries. Backed by strong European support and a clear recognition of its strategic importance – including for European security – we move forward with a determined mindset and well-defined goals.” What to expect in the first issue The first edition of the Rail Baltica newsletter will offer key insights into: As Rail Baltica progresses, this newsletter will provide a deeper look at the developments shaping the project and its role in strengthening regional and European connectivity. Subscribe now to stay informed on Rail Baltica’s news!
railway
Jul 02, 2025
Rail Baltica Global Project Progress In 2025
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Global Project Progress In 2025The project’s importance has been elevated with its inclusion in not one, but two critical European Transport Corridors. By uniting the Baltic, Black, and Aegean Seas, and extending connections to Ukraine and Moldova, Rail Baltica emerges not only as a key to regional connectivity but as a vital instrument for Europe’s reconstruction ambitions in Ukraine. In recognition of growing investment needs and the ambitious 2030 implementation deadline we will adopt a phased implementation approach. The first phase focuses on delivering an operational cross-border corridor by 2030, linking Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania with Poland. The second phase, contingent on future funding, will complete the full integration of Rail Baltica into Europe’s rail network. November 2024 marked a financial milestone for Rail Baltica, with an additional €1.4 billion secured from the Connecting Europe Facility. In total, the project has now secured more than €4 billion through the CEF and national co-financing from the Baltic states. This year, the project seeks to increase this amount further by applying for another EU financing call in the amount of more than € 400 million. Additional financing avenues, including public-private partnerships, are under active exploration. The project has now fully entered the construction phase, with mainline construction underway in all three Baltic countries. By the end of 2025, 43% of the mainline is expected to be construction-ready and actively under development. The two largest procurements – electrification and the design and construction of the control-command and signaling system – are progressing in line with the overall project timeline. “Geopolitical shifts have fundamentally changed how the project is viewed – Rail Baltica is now critical for NATO’s military mobility, increasing its strategic importance. Therefore, we move forward into 2025 with new determination and a clear focus on our most important task – to deliver Rail Baltica. The railway line is no longer a vision – it is becoming a reality as we enter the large-scale construction phase,” said Marko Kivila, interim CEO and Chairman of the Management Board, RB Rail AS. Progress by country In Estonia, Rail Baltica is taking shape with major progress on the ground. Currently, about 74 km of railway mainline substructure is either under construction or secured through contracts across eight sections. Additionally, tenders are ongoing or planned this year for another 33 km of railway substructure construction. So far, 23 railway crossings and 24 utility crossings have been completed, with work continuing on 6 more railway crossings. The Soodevahe and Pärnu construction bases are finished, and the first phase of the Pärnu passenger terminal is complete. In Tallinn, the future heart of Estonia’s international rail connections – the Ülemiste Terminal – is steadily rising. The project is progressing in four phases, with 3 other construction phases being in procurement. An important milestone was reached with the laying of the terminal’s cornerstone. Meanwhile, Rail Baltic Estonia, the national body leading the project, has launched a massive alliance tender for the mainline. Valued at nearly one billion euros, it enables international industry leaders and Estonian companies to combine their experience and expertise, providing added value to the project.   In Latvia, a framework construction agreement has been signed for 230 km of mainline civil works, covering the route connecting with Estonian and Lithuanian borders. Construction preparation has begun in the southern priority section, covering up to 40 km toward the Lithuanian border, with 98% of the necessary land acquisition expected to be completed by the end of the year. Work is underway to establish the mainline construction base, including completed deforestation and ongoing soil preparation. Procurement of construction materials is in progress, site preparation is underway, and efforts are being made to engage with local communities and keep residents informed about upcoming works. By spring, the first construction activities outside Riga will commence near Iecava. Construction continues at Latvia’s two Rail Baltica international passenger terminals – Riga Central Hub and Riga International Airport.     Significant progress has been achieved in Lithuania, with advancements in both design and construction of the mainline. Construction is continuing on the 46 km section towards Panevėžys, with an additional 12 km tender currently underway. In 2025, new tenders will be launched for ~56 km embankment, and ~28 km of mainline superstructure. Recent achievements include new agreements on the bridge over the Neris River, allowing the construction work to be accelerated. Progress has also been made on regional stations and maintenance facilities in Kaunas, Panevėžys, and surrounding areas. Territory planning is complete and design contracts are set to begin in 2025. Meanwhile, the Kaunas Railway Station design contract is in progress.
railway
May 02, 2025
Rb Rail Submits New Funding Application Under The Cef-Digital Program
Rail Baltica
Rb Rail Submits New Funding Application Under The Cef-Digital ProgramRB Rail AS, representing the three Baltic states’ ministries responsible for the Rail Baltica project, submitted a funding application on 13 February 2025 under the CEF-Digital program “5G Large-Scale Pilots – 5G Coverage Along Transport Corridors”. The application seeks financial support to design and build railway radio communication infrastructure that complies with the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) and provides the opportunity to enable 5G connectivity within the European Transport Network (TEN-T). The funding request focuses on developing the first phase of passive infrastructure for the Rail Baltica mainline in all three Baltic states. The intended works include radio coverage modeling, design, and construction of 99 radio towers, which will ensure connectivity for 297 km, or around 30% of the Rail Baltica mainline. These activities aim to enable FRMCS, a modern railway communication standard that supports operational efficiency and safety, while also ensuring dual use for 5G coverage. The works also include dark fiber installation in Estonia and the establishment of local connection points. “Our latest funding application is an important step in advancing Rail Baltica’s digital infrastructure. By adopting FRMCS-compliant technology, we are improving operational capabilities and contributing to stronger integration within the European Transport Network. It must be considered that Rail Baltica crosses areas where current connectivity is unavailable. The deployed infrastructure will allow the installation and operation of a 5G network, securing connectivity for railway passengers, businesses, and surrounding areas,” said Marius Narmontas, COO and Vice-Chairperson of the Management Board at RB Rail AS. The CEF-Digital program, announced in late 2024, emphasizes projects with European significance and readiness. These activities facilitate FRMCS deployment and support 5G network expansion within TEN-T corridors. The evaluation of applications is expected by summer 2025.
railway
Feb 14, 2025
Rail Baltica Is Seen As Crucial For Military Mobility By The Baltic Residents
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Is Seen As Crucial For Military Mobility By The Baltic ResidentsA recent Baltic survey reveals that a significant number of residents recognize the importance of the Rail Baltica project for enhancing military mobility and national security in the region. 60% of respondents in Latvia, 52% in Estonia, and 72% in Lithuania believe that military mobility is the most important reason for the construction of this high-speed mainline connecting the three Baltic states with Poland and the wider EU transport corridor. The data shows that 68% of Baltic residents view Rail Baltica as a major step toward EU integration, comparable to the euro adoption. Also the project’s military significance resonates strongly across the region, with 67% of respondents agreeing that Rail Baltica is crucial for NATO operations. This sentiment is particularly pronounced in Lithuania at 78%, while Latvia and Estonia show similar levels of support at 62% and 60%. “The project started as a sustainability initiative primarily focusing on moving passengers and goods, but Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has changed what it means. Now, it is not just about that – it is also a way to show EU solidarity with its easternmost members and to help reroute goods in a region where trade routes have been thrown off course. These results demonstrate that people in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia understand the strategic importance of Rail Baltica beyond its civilian transportation benefits,” said Kitija Gruškevica, Member of RB Rail AS Management Board. “As a modern, high-speed rail connection to Europe, Rail Baltica will significantly enhance our ability to rapidly move military personnel and equipment when needed.” The survey reveals strong support across the Baltic states for the idea that improving military mobility through Rail Baltica will enhance security. In Latvia, 69% of men and 74% of women agree with this statement, with the highest support among young people aged 18-24 (83%). In Lithuania, agreement is even stronger, with 85% of men and 89% of women expressing support, particularly in the 25-35 age group (91%). In Estonia, 69% of men and 73% of women agree, with support highest among 18-24-year-olds (83%). Nevertheless, political accountability emerges as a key concern, with 67% of respondents attributing project delays to indecisive politicians. This view is most prevalent in Lithuania (74%), with Latvia and Estonia showing similar levels of agreement at 64% and 62% respectively. Rail Baltica public opinion and awareness survey was conducted in cooperation with the research agency Norstat in December 2024, surveying 1006 respondents in Latvia, 1008 respondents in Estonia and 1007 respondents in Lithuania aged 18 to 75.
railway
Jan 30, 2025
Rail Baltica Submits New Funding Application For The Connecting Europe Facility Call
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Submits New Funding Application For The Connecting Europe Facility CallThe Rail Baltica global project coordinator has submitted a funding application for the latest Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) call in this budget period, outlining plans for further infrastructure developments across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, with a total value exceeding €325 million. “The competition for this Connecting Europe Facility funding call is incredibly strong. However, we remain optimistic about a positive outcome, as this financing is critical for accelerating Rail Baltica’s construction progress across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Securing this funding will help us take significant steps toward completing this vital infrastructure, which connects the Baltics to the European rail network and strengthens regional connectivity,” said Marko Kivila, interim CEO and Chairman of the Management Board at RB Rail AS. Construction activities submitted for the next funding round In Estonia, the application includes the construction of a 10.1 km double-track embankment from Kärpla to Selja, involving construction work for the railway substructure and civil engineering structures. In Latvia, the focus is on the next phase of construction on the southern section of the Rail Baltica mainline (from the Lithuanian border to Salaspils). This includes the construction of 14.2 km of railway embankments. Additionally, the application includes the first phase of technical design for the Rail Baltica electrification project in the section from the Latvian-Lithuanian border to Upeslejas, as well as support measures for project implementation. In Lithuania, the scope focuses on several strategic elements, including the three structures in the Kaunas Urban Node Railway mainline section, full-scope ENE technical design from the Latvian border to the Polish border, design of regional stations, and executive design services. The plan also includes land acquisition for 30% of the section between the Polish border and the Kaunas Urban Node. All Baltic countries saw growth in construction last year In 2024, Rail Baltica construction activities progressed across all three Baltic states. In Estonia, construction contracts cover 73.87 kilometers of railway embankment, with an additional 32.59 kilometers planned for tender in the upcoming weeks. In Latvia, a framework agreement for mainline civil works has been signed, covering 228 kilometers, with initial construction set to begin on a 40-kilometer section near the Lithuanian border. In Lithuania, construction is ongoing for 46.3 kilometers of mainline embankment and engineering structures, a tender has been launched for additional 12.1-kilometer section, with additional tenders planned to be launched in 2025, starting works in total of 114 km this year. Currently, approximately 160 kilometers of the mainline and associated infrastructure are under construction in all three countries. With ongoing procurement processes for key railway subsystems and the current pace of work, Rail Baltica expects to have 43% of the mainline ready for construction by the end of 2025. Alongside national activities, Rail Baltica is also continuing the cross-border activities to be implemented by the joint venture RB Rail AS and co-financed by all three Baltic states. RB Rail AS will continue to global project coordination through system engineering, comprehensive management activities, including action management, global project coordination, planning and verification, and ENE technical design support measures. The project has already secured over €4 billion in funding, with significant contributions from the EU and member states. To address rising costs driven by inflation, Rail Baltica is exploring new funding mechanisms, including concession-based procurements and leveraging EU military mobility funds. In September 2024, the European Commission announced the final call for funding under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Transport) for the 2021–2027 period. Results are expected by July 2025, with funding agreements finalized in the fall.
railway
Jan 29, 2025
Rail Baltica: The People Behind The Vision. Aistė Varkalytė
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica: The People Behind The Vision. Aistė VarkalytėRail Baltica is a railway infrastructure megaproject that spans across several countries. The depth of skills and expertise required to successfully execute a greenfield project of this caliber is extensive and would not be possible without our diverse team of professionals. Welcome back to our series, “Rail Baltica: The People Behind the Vision,” where we introduce you to the members of the Rail Baltica global project team. These individuals are the driving force advancing the Rail Baltica project with their professionalism, dedication, and passion for this project. Aistė Varkalytė, Senior Project Manager, LTG Infra At the construction site of the Neris Bridge, Italian contractor Rizzani de Eccher has carried out a spectacular test of the bridge piles – the largest test in the history of Lithuanian railways. Aistė Varkalytė, Senior Project Manager of the Rail Baltica team in Lithuania, works with this contractor and represents LTG Infra in daily meetings regarding the contract work, deals with contract performance, technical and general construction issues. Aistė joined the Rail Baltica team in 2019, having returned to Lithuania from the United Kingdom specifically to work on this project. Rizzani de Eccher is a highly experienced contractor with a high level of professionalism. What are the specifics of your work? My team members and I often feel happy that Rail Baltica is a project full of daily challenges due to its transnational and complex nature. We are constantly learning something new as we tackle them. Although the main contractor for the construction of the Neris Bridge is an Italian company, we work with people of many different nationalities. The boundaries between our different viewpoints and habits become more and more blurred every day. And I agree that diversity is a key factor for success in any team, and that’s the only way to find the right solutions efficiently.  Both LTG Infra and the technical maintenance team have gained valuable international experience, and I myself lived and worked in the United Kingdom for many years. How has your role changed since you joined the project? I joined the team in 2019. Before that I worked on Crossrail, railway electrification and other projects, and Rail Baltica encouraged me to return home. I took part in job interviews, then my family and I packed our bags and moved back to Lithuania. I have tried to change jobs, but only for a short time – I went straight back, and my colleagues and I laugh saying that most of us are so passionate about Rail Baltica that we have no desire for career changes. There are some colleagues who can be called Rail Baltica’s leaders because they have seen the project from the beginning, when the concept was still being developed; they believe unequivocally in its success, and they are the main flag-bearers of this project. I am glad that our current team is extensive and dedicated, and the number of planned and ongoing projects is so impressive that even I cannot keep up with all the news and updates. For the success of the project, now, it is best to concentrate on our own tasks and leave the other sections where work is underway to responsible colleagues. However, I am constantly trying to learn the most relevant facts so that I can answer the questions I receive in my daily life, from relatives and friends who are interested in the project. What do you think is the biggest challenge of Rail Baltica? Deadlines and accelerating the work. Coordination and links between project parties. The hiring manager asked me what the key to project success was. My answer is still the same: communication. Communication plays an essential role for project clarity, transparency, collaboration, stakeholder engagement, conflict resolution and motivation. What advice would you give to a new colleague joining the team? Give yourself time to get to know and understand the complexity of the project. Even long-term colleagues are still learning, as are many of the Lithuanian companies and institutions involved in the project after all, we have never had a project of this size before. What fascinates you about railway infrastructure projects? The people who are committed to the work. I have not met a single railway employee, either in Lithuania or in the United Kingdom, who does not want to be a railway employee. Infrastructure work requires special care and diligence, because first of all it relies on safety – of passengers, of freight, of traffic, of the state. That is why infrastructure projects carry a lot of responsibility. Working in the railway industry brings immense joy as it combines the thrill of engineering with the satisfaction of providing a vital public service, all while fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and adventure among colleagues.
railway
Jan 24, 2025
New Chairman Of The Rb Rail As Supervisory Board Appointed
Rail Baltica
New Chairman Of The Rb Rail As Supervisory Board AppointedIn alignment with the annual rotation principle, Arenijus Jackus has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Supervisory Board of RB Rail AS. This appointment marks the continuation of the rotational leadership structure established under the Shareholder Agreement, ensuring equitable representation among Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, the three member states of the Rail Baltica joint venture. The RB Rail AS Supervisory Board consists of six members, each serving a three-year term, with two representatives nominated by each shareholder country. All appointments are approved by the General Meeting of Shareholders. The chairmanship rotates annually among the member states, reflecting the collaborative governance model that underpins the Rail Baltica project. Arenijus Jackus brings a wealth of expertise to his new role as Chairperson. Holding a master’s degree in Transport Engineering Economics and Management from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, he has been deeply involved with the Rail Baltica project since its inception. Currently serving as the Chief Rail Baltica Lietuva officer at LTG, Jackus has dedicated over 14 years to leadership roles within the public sector. His extensive experience spans strategic planning and finance, EU investment administration, project implementation, international relations, and EU affairs, gained during his tenure at the Ministry of Transport and Communications, which began in 1997. Beyond his government roles, Jackus has held prominent governance positions, including Chairman of the Management Board at “Kaunas Airport” SE, Member of the Supervisory Board at LTG Infra, and board positions with “Klaipėda State Seaport Authority” SE, “Oro Navigacija” SE, and “Rail Baltica Statyba” UAB. “I am honored to assume the chairmanship of RB Rail AS’s Supervisory Board. Rail Baltica is a strategic priority of the Baltic States and one of the European Union’s key investments, and I am determined, together with the entire project team, to continue advancing the project with the utmost urgency” said Jackus. Supporting him in leadership, Ģirts Rūda and Keit Kasemets have been elected as Vice-Chairpersons of the Supervisory Board. Ģirts Rūda will assume the position of Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, while Sandor Liive will take over as Chair of the Human Resource Committee.
railway
Jan 16, 2025
Rail Baltica’S Transformative Impact Highlighted At “Look At The Future Of Mobility 2024” Conference
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica’S Transformative Impact Highlighted At “Look At The Future Of Mobility 2024” ConferenceThe “Look at the Future of Mobility 2024” conference, held on 21 November in Riga, brought together leaders from the transport and logistics sectors, policymakers, academics, and students to discuss transformative projects like Rail Baltica and their potential impact on mobility, innovation, and civil-military logistics. With an agenda that highlighted both current achievements and future challenges, the event showcased Rail Baltica’s role as a cornerstone of sustainable transport and regional connectivity. A special section of the conference program was dedicated to the Rail Baltica project. Ivo Vaicis, Vice Dean for Innovation at Riga Technical University (RTU), presented a study that examines the employment situation of engineers in Latvia and analyzed the skills these specialists need to support the implementation of Rail Baltica. Ēriks Diļevs, Chairperson of the Board of Eiropas Dzelzceļa līnijas, the implementing body of Rail Baltica in Latvia, provided updates on the project’s progress in the country. He noted that by the end of this year, the construction of the Rail Baltica mainline is planned to begin in the Bauska Municipality near Iecava, within the territory of the Rail Baltica infrastructure maintenance point. He also explained the opportunities available for Latvia’s transport and construction sectors to participate in the project and become partners in implementing Rail Baltica. Companies can apply to be included in the mainline contractor ERB Rail’s supplier database at https://erbrail.com/lv/piegades-kede/. Kitija Gruškevica, Member of the Management Board of RB Rail AS, the project’s central coordinator, emphasized Rail Baltica’s transformative significance for the Baltic region. “Building Rail Baltica is the next significant and essential step in the Baltic countries’ path toward full integration into the European Union,” she said. “It can be compared to the introduction of the euro more than a decade ago – perhaps even more impactful. Additionally, its importance has grown as it now plays a critical role as a NATO military mobility corridor.” Gruškevica’s remarks underlined Rail Baltica’s dual role in fostering economic integration and enhancing the region’s security. These themes were explored further through discussions about ongoing construction progress, the strategic diversification of cargo flows, and the opportunities for local industries to contribute to the megaproject. Now in its second year, “Look at the Future of Mobility” is organized by RTU’s Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management’s Governance and Safety Institute, with support from the Swedish Institute. The conference creates an environment for professionals, academics, and students to collaborate with policymakers, shaping positive change in the transport sector. By fostering dialogue, developing strategies, and sharing expertise, the event continues to contribute to the evolution of sustainable and innovative mobility solutions.
railway
Nov 28, 2024
Rail Baltica Billion-Euro Procurement: Five Leading Consortia Advance To The Next Round
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica Billion-Euro Procurement: Five Leading Consortia Advance To The Next RoundOne of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects, Rail Baltica, has reached a significant milestone: five consortia – four international and one domestic – have advanced from the first stage of the alliance procurement for Estonia’s section of the main railway line, connecting Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to the rest of Europe. This procurement, valued at nearly one billion euros, will determine who will complete the design and construction of the mainline between Ülemiste–Pärnu and Pärnu–the Latvian border in the next stages. The five shortlisted consortia are: CEO of Rail Baltic Estonia Anvar Salomets emphasized that the alliance contract model plays a key role in the success of the project. “This model enables international industry leaders and Estonian companies to combine their experience and expertise, providing added value to the project and ensuring the best possible outcome. I am confident that working together will lay the foundation for an efficient and high-quality railway that connects us more closely with the rest of Europe,” said Salomets. During the first stage, candidates were evaluated based on diverse criteria, including technical and financial capabilities and prior experience. All five consortia met stringent qualification requirements. The next steps involve submitting initial proposals, contract negotiations, development workshops, and final proposal submissions. The aim is to sign two contracts in the first half of 2025. The total value of the alliance procurement could reach up to 932 million euros, including the option for strategic material procurement. Why is this important? Rail Baltica is not just a railway – it is a geopolitical project that will integrate the region more closely with Central and Western Europe. The 870-kilometer railway, built to a unified standard gauge, will allow speeds of up to 249 km/h, making the Baltic states more attractive for trade and tourism. Collaboration with international leaders does not only ensure the project’s success but also creates unique opportunities for local companies to participate in large-scale infrastructure projects. This experience and the references gained will help Estonian companies enhance their competitiveness and open doors to international markets where such projects are increasingly in demand. Furthermore, collaboration at an international level and the application of advanced technologies will contribute to local competence and innovation. The construction of the mainline in Estonia is funded by the European Union and the Estonian state budget. The selected alliances will be responsible for completing the mainline between Ülemiste and the Latvian border.
railway
Nov 27, 2024
Rail Baltica In The Spotlight At The Intelligent Rail Summit In Tallinn
Rail Baltica
Rail Baltica In The Spotlight At The Intelligent Rail Summit In TallinnThe recently held Intelligent Rail Summit 2024, organized by ProMedia Group, positioned Rail Baltica at the forefront of discussions on the future of rail transport. Held for the first time in a Baltic country, the conference highlighted the strategic significance of Rail Baltica as a transformative infrastructure project, integrating the Baltic region into the broader European rail network. The event featured key contributions from Rail Baltica leadership, including members of the project’s central coordinator RB Rail’s Management Board: Marko Kivila, Chairperson of the Board and CEO, and Emilien Dang, Chief Technical Officer, as well as Anvar Salomets, CEO of Rail Baltic Estonia, the project’s national implementing body in Estonia. Delivering an update on Rail Baltica’s progress, Marko Kivila said: “Rail Baltica is a transformative rail infrastructure initiative connecting the Baltic countries – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – with Poland, Finland, and the broader EU railway network. This year, construction activities have accelerated significantly, with approximately 150 km of the mainline and related infrastructure expected to be under construction by year-end. Moreover, major railway subsystem procurements are nearing completion.” The conference delved into emerging technologies and challenges facing the rail industry, exploring topics such as train monitoring systems, predictive maintenance, asset management, and the integration of AI and cybersecurity. Rail Baltica’s active involvement underscored its forward-looking approach to these challenges, offering insights into how innovation can enhance efficiency and sustainability. In his keynote address, Emilien Dang outlined Rail Baltica’s approach to leveraging advanced technologies to set new benchmarks in smart rail systems: “Rail Baltica will lay the foundation for advanced rail solutions in the region, fostering seamless, hassle-free passenger experiences while prioritizing sustainability. We are creating a railway capable of meeting future demands.” During a panel discussion, Dang emphasized the importance of innovation in shaping the railways of the future. He pointed to advancements like autonomous trains, smart infrastructure, and scalable systems as critical to ensuring long-term efficiency and adaptability. “The infrastructure we build today is designed to last for the next century. Rail Baltica’s greenfield development allows us to integrate advanced technologies from the outset, avoiding costly retrofitting and ensuring a sustainable, efficient railway system,” Emilien Dang added. Anvar Salomets, emphasized Rail Baltica’s critical role in linking the Baltic countries with the broader European rail network. He highlighted the Ülemiste terminal – the international Rail Baltica railway station currently under construction in Estonia and visited by conference participants as part of the event – as a state-of-the-art hub at the heart of this vision: “The Ülemiste terminal will be a vital transport hub that integrates international and local travel. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, it exemplifies advanced mobility solutions and enhances Estonia’s role in Europe’s rail network.”
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Nov 27, 2024