On 18 September, the closing event of the project “Modernisation and Development of the Railway Electrified Network” took place at Zemitāni Station. The event provided an overview of the project’s achievements, its significance for the development of Latvia’s railway infrastructure, and future plans for the further modernisation of the electrified railway network.
As part of the project, 103 kilometres of electrified railway infrastructure were modernised and developed without interrupting passenger services. Works were carried out at Zemitāni Station, on the railway sections Riga–Zemitāni, Zemitāni–Jāņavārti and Imanta–Sloka, and on the Riga railway bridge across the Daugava River. In addition, a new overhead contact line was constructed on the Zasulauks–Bolderāja section. These improvements have enhanced Latvia’s zero-emission public railway network, making the railway infrastructure more modern, sustainable and better suited to passengers’ needs.
Highlights from the project closing event:
Approximately 90% of passenger rail transport in Latvia takes place on electrified railway lines, and passenger numbers continue to grow. At the same time, a large part of the overhead contact line network was built in the 1950s to 1970s and has reached or exceeded its operational service life. Therefore, renewing this infrastructure is essential to ensure the safe and reliable operation of train services in the future. Through this project, we have modernised 103 kilometres of the electrified network, but we will not stop here. The modernisation of the overhead contact line system will continue in the coming years. I would also like to thank passengers for their understanding and patience during the construction works,” said Artis Grinbergs, Chairman of the Management Board of Latvian Railway (LDz).
“The implementation of this project is a significant investment in the future of Latvia’s railway sector and its continued development. It is particularly important that the project was completed within the specified timeframe and financed entirely through European Union funding. I would like to thank Latvian Railway, the project team, the contractors and everyone involved for their contribution and achievements,” said Rihards Kozlovskis, minister of transport.
Andris Kužnieks, Head of the European Commission Representation in Latvia, also spoke positively about the completed project and future plans:
“European Union investments are helping Latvia develop a modern, safe and more environmentally friendly transport system, making rail an even more attractive choice for both passengers and businesses. The modernisation and development of the electrified railway network was made possible through Recovery funding, while substantial support from the Cohesion Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the Connecting Europe Facility has also played an important role in the development of Latvia’s railway infrastructure. At the same time, we are looking ahead to new opportunities. The Social Climate Fund Plan also envisages financing for the procurement of battery electric multiple units (BEMU) and the development of their charging infrastructure in the coming years.”
Project Details
SJSC Latvian Railway (VAS Latvijas dzelzceļš) project: “Modernisation and Development of the Railway Electrified Network”
Project No. 1.1.1.1.i.2/23/I/CFLA/001.
EU Recovery Fund: 100% of eligible project costs, up to EUR 72.7 million.
Project implementation period: 28 February 2024 – 31 August 2026.
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