SOFIA–PERNIK–RADOMIR RAILWAY LINE

Upgrading of a strategic section of the Orient/East-Med European Corridor

The National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC) has commenced the design phase for the upgrading and modernisation of the Sofia–Pernik–Radomir railway line, an integral part of the TEN-T Orient/East Med Core Network Corridor. This infrastructure forms a key axis of the north-south transport link connecting Vidin (on the Romanian border), Sofia, and the Greek border. The project is one of Bulgaria’s primary strategic capital investments, driving the alignment of the national rail network with European TEN-T standards to reinforce the connectivity, interoperability, and sustainability of the Bulgarian rail transport system.

The project delivers a substantial capacity upgrade to the existing line through a comprehensive modernisation of civil engineering, track, and technological infrastructure, preparing the network to accommodate the forecast increase in traffic flows driven by wider TEN-T route enhancements. The works will bring the line into full compliance with European interoperability standards, improving network accessibility and ensuring strict adherence to international safety regulations. Following the completion of the infrastructure upgrades, the line will accommodate operating speeds of between 120 and 160 km/h, depending on the traffic type.

Operating within a joint venture alongside leading international engineering consultancies, FS Engineering delivered the infrastructure modernization and upgrade design for a section of the line approximately 48 km in length, engineered for maximum operating speeds of up to 160 km/h for passenger services and 120 km/h for freight trains. Completion of the project will facilitate a significant modal shift from road to rail, generating major benefits in terms of transport system efficiency and environmental sustainability for the whole country.

The work was completed in October 2023.