photo: 2TDK; Railway Supply / Public domain/Construction site
The Slovenian Parliament has approved the Divača-Koper Railway Expansion, aiming to improve access to the Port of Koper by 2030, focusing on regional trade and sustainable transport.
The state-owned entity 2TDK has been appointed to oversee the construction and operations of the dual-track system. According to Railway Supply, this new infrastructure is expected to streamline Slovenia’s transportation network, shifting freight transport from roads to railways, which will help reduce road congestion. The first track is anticipated to be completed by 2025, paving the way for this significant upgrade.
Funding and Environmental Considerations
With an estimated cost of EUR 354 million, the project is primarily funded by the European Investment Bank, which is contributing EUR 250 million. The expansion is projected to facilitate the transport of up to 24 million tonnes of cargo annually, promoting a more sustainable approach to logistics by shifting goods from trucks to trains. As the project moves forward, Slovenia aims to address environmental concerns raised by neighboring Italy, ensuring that the expansion aligns with sustainable development goals.
Port of Koper's Growth and Intermodal Importance
In an interview with RAILTARGET, Dariusz Mierkiewicz, the Business Development Manager at the Port of Koper, mentioned the port's strong performance in 2022, despite challenges faced by many European ports. The Port of Koper saw an increase in container handling and vehicle shipments, thanks in part to investments, including an expansion of its container terminal. Mierkiewicz noted the importance of intermodal connections, especially with Poland, where PKP Cargo established direct links to the Ports of Gdynia and Gdańsk. He emphasized that over 50% of the port's turnover comes from rail transport, making these connections crucial.
Source: Railway Supply; RAILTARGET
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