Modernisation Over Expansion: Europe’s Rail Network Becomes More Efficient

Rail transport in the European Union is undergoing a huge transformation, with fewer tracks but higher quality and capacity. New Eurostat data shows growing investment in multi-track infrastructure and digital control systems.

The share of railway lines with two or more tracks reached 40.8% in 2024. This marks a substantial increase compared to 31.8% in 1990. Expanding multi-track infrastructure is one of the core pillars of rail modernisation. It enables better traffic management, reduces delays, and improves safety. In practice, this translates into more frequent services, higher reliability, and a lower risk of collisions.

A notable paradox is the decline in the total length of the railway network. In 2024, the EU had approximately 201,000 kilometres of rail lines, nearly 9% less than in 1990. According to analysts, this does not indicate decline but rather strategic rationalisation. Less-used lines are being phased out in favour of investment in main corridors that are more efficient and better aligned with current transport demand.

This trend is closely linked to electrification. While less than 40% of lines were electrified in 1990, the share has now reached 57.6%. Electrified lines play a key role in reducing emissions and supporting sustainable mobility.

Uneven Development Across Member States

Rail network density varies significantly across the EU. The highest density is found in the Czech Republic, with more than 123 metres of track per square kilometre. Belgium and Germany follow. At the other end of the spectrum are countries such as Greece, Finland, and Sweden, where the network is less dense. Network density is closely linked to population concentration and industrial activity.

Modern railways are no longer defined only by tracks but also by technology. One of the most important elements is the European Train Control System (ETCS), which enables continuous communication between trains and infrastructure. According to the European Union Agency for Railways, Luxembourg was the only country with full ETCS deployment in 2025. Denmark and Belgium have also achieved high levels of implementation. Meanwhile, countries such as Hungary, Croatia, Germany, and Romania have among the lowest levels of coverage.

Slovakia has achieved ETCS coverage of 4.9%. While this is slightly better than Poland or France, it still lags behind countries such as the Czech Republic and Bulgaria. Experts warn that digitalisation and the deployment of intelligent systems will be decisive for rail competitiveness against road and air transport in the coming years.

The development of the EU rail network points to a clear direction: fewer lines, but of higher quality, speed, and safety. Investments are increasingly focused on modernising key corridors, expanding electrification, and deploying digital technologies. Railways therefore remain one of the main pillars of sustainable transport. With growing emphasis on environmentally friendly solutions, their importance is expected to continue rising in the years ahead.

Sources: eurostat; ERA; tasr; SME INDEX