A programme upgrading the railway line linking Kelenföld station in Hungary’s capital, Budapest with the city of Székesfehérvár, the seat of Fejér County and capital of the Central Transdanubia region, is being completed with the help of European Union co-financing. The project is the second phase of a two-stage modernisation plan to increase train speeds and freight capacity on the line, while reducing journey times.
- 31 March 2017
The section of railway being reconstructed under the project is 19 kilometres long. The work also includes renovation of the station at Székesfehérvár, with the building of new platforms and passenger underpasses.
Passenger information and security surveillance systems are being installed, as are electronic interlocking systems for signalling. These will help to ensure the safe movement of trains through areas such as junctions and crossings.
Technical improvements to raise safety standards
The project also includes new overhead power-line equipment which transmits electrical energy to power the trains. Other technical improvements include fitting new heated turnouts, which allow trains to be guided from one track to another.
As the line is part of the core Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the European Rail Traffic Management System’s European Train Control System (ETCS) infrastructure has been fitted to bring it into conformity with TEN-T requirements. ETCS comprises track-side and on-board GSM systems which allow continuous transmission to drivers of data on signalling, control and train protection matters.
A vital international transit route
The Budapest to Székesfehérvár connection is part of an important transit route that links Hungary with Slovenia and the western Mediterranean region, with significant volumes of international freight traffic passing through Székesfehérvár station. The line also connects Budapest to Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe and a popular tourism resort.
In addition, it plays a vital role in suburban transit within Budapest. Budapest-Kelenföld, where the line begins, is the Hungarian capital's fourth busiest railway station and the terminus of Line 4 on the Budapest Metro. A suburban bus terminal is located next to the station.
A total of EUR 122.7 million has been invested over both phases of the programme, with EUR 46 million coming in phase two. The work carried out during the second phase is backed by EU funding of just under EUR 30.8 million.
By improving international accessibility to Hungary’s railway network and removing bottlenecks in key transport infrastructure, the investment will benefit thousands of people and provide invaluable support for businesses. It will also reduce waiting times for passengers, while helping to improve safety across the region’s railways.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Reconstruction of Székesfehérvár railway station, II. phase” is EUR 46 006 583, with the EU’s Cohesion Fund contributing EUR 30 795 054 through the “Integrated Transport” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period.