Line electrification to Zastavka u Brna to start next year, cost exceeds estimate
The current line speed of 80 km/h will be increased to 120 km/h after the installation of ETCS.
A consortium of Subterra, OHLA ZS and Elektrizace zeleznic Praha won the public contract for stage 2 of the modernization and electrification of the line from Brno to Zastavka u Brna. The construction will cost CZK half a billion more than estimated. Due to lack of money, preparations will start this year but the work will be finished a year later.
The rail infrastructure administrator Sprava zeleznic announced the news in a press release. According to data in the contract register, Sprava zeleznic will pay CZK 2.959 billion (EUR 120 million), the estimated price was CZK 2.482 billion. The deadline for submitting bids was last September.
This section modernisation will allow the introduction of electric suburban trains on the busy line between Brno and Zastavka. The main construction work should start next spring, with completion scheduled for the end of 2024. The first stage to Strelice is being upgraded by Skanska and Elektrizace zeleznic for CZK 2.28 billion. It will be ready this spring.
A double-track line, which will be electrified, will lead to Zastavka u Brna. In addition to the renewal of the railway superstructure and substructure, traction poles will be built and overhead lines will be stretched. The project also includes the reconstruction of eleven bridges and five culverts. Modern electronic signaling equipment as well as the reconstruction of eight level crossings will contribute to higher traffic safety. The current line speed of 80 km/h will be increased to 120 km/h after the installation of ETCS.
Some stops will undergo reconstruction. However, the biggest transformation will take place at Zastavka u Brna station, where two outer platforms and one island platform will be built. Elevators will provide for wheelchair accessible connection between the new underpass and the platforms. The boarding edges in all stations and stops will be 550 millimeters above the track, which will enable comfortable boarding of trains.