Croatia-Slovenia Rail: New Cross-Border Trains Launched

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Introduction

HŽ Putnički prijevoz, in collaboration with Slovenske železnice, initiated four new cross-border trains on the Zabok–Rogatec–Zabok route, starting September 1st. The launch of these services aims to enhance cross-border connectivity between Croatia and Slovenia.

New Train Services

The inaugural train service was marked by a ceremony attended by Žarko Tušek, Croatia’s State Secretary of the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, along with Željko Ukić, CEO of HŽ Putnički prijevoz. Other attendees included Krapina-Zagorje County Prefect Željko Kolar, Mayor of Krapina Zoran Gregurović, and representatives from Slovenske železnice. The first train was greeted at Zabok station by the Mayor of Zabok, Valentina Đurek.

Increased Cross-Border Connectivity

According to Željko Ukić, CEO of HŽ Putnički prijevoz, the new trains on the Rogatec–Zabok route will increase the daily train frequency to eight. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for commuters and students in border areas. Approximately 1.2 million passengers utilized train services in the Zagorje region of northern Croatia, bordering Slovenia, in 2024.

Investment and Infrastructure

State Secretary Tušek emphasized the importance of the new cross-border trains and mentioned ongoing railway investments amounting to EUR 1.5 billion. These investments include both infrastructure development and fleet modernization. To date, 67 new trains have been delivered, supporting the launch of new routes. These routes connect Hum na Sutli with the largest industrial hub in north-western Croatia.

Local Initiatives and Future Projects

The introduction of these services reflects collaboration with the local community to meet specific transport needs. In March, a new diesel multiple unit began operations on the Đurmanec–Krapina–Zabok route, with another train planned for the same line. Furthermore, infrastructure upgrades are underway in northern Croatia, including the modernisation of the Gornja Stubica–Zabok line, and a feasibility study is in progress for the Kumrovec line.

Conclusion

The addition of these cross-border trains aims to provide passengers with more frequent and higher-quality rail connections between Croatia and Slovenia, thereby strengthening the links between the two countries.

Company Summary

HŽ Putnički prijevoz: The Croatian national passenger railway operator.

Slovenske železnice: The national railway company of Slovenia.

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