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GREAT NEWS: Rail Baltica's main route in Estonia meets the requirements of the first EIA

GREAT NEWS: Rail Baltica's main route in Estonia meets the requirements of the first EIA
photo: Rail Baltica/GREAT NEWS: Rail Baltica's main route in Estonia meets the requirements of the first EIA
04 / 08 / 2022

The Ülemiste-Kangru section of Rail Baltica has received approval from the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority for its environmental impact assessment (EIA) report, stating that it meets all the necessary requirements. This recognition will pave the way for the construction of the first phase of the railway project to begin.

The railway corridor spans 15.8 kilometres from the Ülemiste terminal to Kangru township, passing through mainly commercial and industrial zones as well as densely populated areas. There are no large forest areas, agricultural areas, or Natura 2000 sites within the vicinity of the railway.

Roland Müür, Rail Baltic Estonia's environmental manager, claims that all significant environmental impacts have been addressed in the EIA report. Measures to mitigate environmental impacts include the construction of noise barriers made of wood or metal, earth embankments, an eco-duct, an underpass for big game, and tunnels for small animals. Additionally, green strips will be built on the edge of three viaducts that cross the railway.

To ensure the protection of the bird population, the forest will be cut outside the breeding season, and construction activities will be restricted if necessary. The water level and quality of wells will be maintained during construction activities, and construction materials will be transported and stored in a manner that minimizes dust.

Monitoring during the construction and usage of the railway will be mandatory to ensure that the measures are implemented effectively. Environmental management plans will be developed for each section of the project, outlining both mandatory and voluntary environmental measures. These plans will be regularly updated according to changes in environmental information or improved knowledge.

The environmental impact assessment of the Estonian part of Rail Baltica is being conducted concurrently with the main route design. Areas assessed include wildlife, noise, energy consumption, cultural heritage, air quality, and water resources. The Estonian branch of RB Rail AS requested the impact assessment at the beginning of 2019.

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