The modernization of the Sofia-Plovdiv railway line has reached another crucial milestone with the stone-laying ceremony which took place on 30 October 2023 in Ihtiman. This significant project, focused on the railway section between Elin Pelin and Kostenets, promises to enhance Bulgaria's transportation infrastructure and foster more efficient and sustainable rail travel.
- 30 October 2023
The project is a part of the broader plan to revamp the entire Sofia-Plovdiv railway line, a major artery connecting two of Bulgaria's most vital cities. The event was attended by government officials, railway authorities, and project stakeholders, marking the start of construction on the second segment of this ambitious project which will become part of the longest tunnel network on the Balkan peninsula.
In a bid to enhance Bulgaria's rail infrastructure and align it with European standards, the ambitious modernization project of the Elin Pelin – Kostenets railway section represents a significant step toward enhancing rail connectivity and contributing to the development of the Orient/East-Mediterranean Corridor passing through Bulgaria.
Key aspects of this modernization effort include the installation of state-of-the-art signalling systems, the expansion of double-track segments, station and platform improvements, the construction or renovation of a total of 24 bridges and viaducts, the upgrade of rail infrastructure to accommodate higher speeds, and the construction of one-way (two-tube) tunnels with a total length of 15.4 kilometers and eight two-way (single-pipe) tunnels totaling 5.48 kilometers. These enhancements will not only improve the reliability and frequency of train services but also pave the way for a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation, reducing the carbon footprint associated with rail travel.
Moreover, the modernization project is expected to stimulate economic growth in the regions it touches. By streamlining logistics and improving connectivity between Sofia and Plovdiv, it will facilitate the movement of goods and people, fostering trade, commerce, and tourism. It also underlines Bulgaria and EU’s commitment to progressive and sustainable rail infrastructure, setting a solid foundation for a more interconnected and efficient future.