Bucharest Metro Line 5 – Railway Technology

This article explores the engineering and technological aspects of Bucharest Metro Line 5, a significant expansion of the city’s underground railway network. The project, representing Phase IV of the Bucharest metro modernization, is a substantial undertaking involving extensive civil engineering works, advanced tunneling techniques, and the procurement of a new fleet of modern metro trains. This analysis will delve into the project’s phases, technological specifications, funding mechanisms, and the expected impact on Bucharest’s public transportation system. The aim is to provide a detailed overview of this crucial infrastructure project, highlighting the key technical challenges overcome and the resulting improvements to the city’s transit capabilities. The analysis will consider the long-term implications of this expansion for urban mobility and sustainable transport in Bucharest, focusing on the efficiency and capacity enhancements achieved.

Project Overview and Funding

Bucharest Metro Line 5 is being built in two sections. Section 1, Raul Doamnei-Eroilor, runs 9km from Drumul Taberei to Universitate and was part of the 2008-2012 short-term expansion plan. Section 2, an 8.7km route from Universitate to Pantelimon, is part of the 2013-2020 medium-term plan. The project is a joint venture, primarily funded by a €883 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and supplemented by €488 million from the Romanian Government. A significant portion of the EIB loan (€395 million) is specifically allocated to Line 5 construction, including the procurement of 37 new metro trains (21 for Line 5, 16 for fleet replacement on existing lines).

Construction and Tunneling

Section 1’s construction, awarded to a consortium including FCC (Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas), Astaldi, AB Construct, and ACM Delta, involved the construction of two parallel 5.7m-diameter tunnels, each 4.85km long. A third, 260m connecting tunnel links Line 5 to Line 1 at Eroilor station. Approximately 240,000m³ of earth and rock were excavated. Systra oversaw the 25-month construction period. The initial 6.1km section includes nine underground stations, 15m-20m below ground level. Max Bögl of Romania constructed a new depot near the Brâncuși area. The Râul Doamnei station, serving as a terminus, is exceptionally large at 226.6m long and 18.6m wide.

Rolling Stock and Operational Parameters

The new trains for Line 5, along with those replacing older rolling stock on existing lines, are six-car electronic multiple units (EMUs). These EMUs are 114m long and have a maximum capacity of 1,200 passengers. Trains on Line 5 will operate at a top speed of 80km/h in tunnels and 50km/h in stations, maintaining an average speed of 36km/h. The introduction of these modern EMUs signifies a significant improvement in passenger capacity and overall operational efficiency.

Project Summary and Technological Advancements

Conclusions

The Bucharest Metro Line 5 project represents a significant investment in modernizing and expanding the city’s public transportation infrastructure. The project showcases advanced tunneling techniques, sophisticated civil engineering, and the implementation of modern, high-capacity rolling stock. The successful completion of Section 1, with its intricate tunneling and station construction, demonstrates the technical capabilities and project management expertise involved. The allocation of substantial funding from both the EIB and the Romanian Government underscores the project’s importance for improving urban mobility and economic development in Bucharest. The integration of Line 5 with the existing network, facilitating seamless transfers, will significantly enhance connectivity across the city. The introduction of the new EMUs signifies a commitment to providing efficient and comfortable passenger transportation, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban transport system. The long-term implications of Line 5 extend beyond immediate capacity increases; it aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and contribute to a more livable and accessible urban environment. The project serves as a model for future metro expansion initiatives, showcasing successful international collaboration and the effective integration of advanced technology in urban rail development.

Company Information:

• Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas (FCC): A Spanish multinational construction and infrastructure company.
• Astaldi: An Italian multinational construction company.
• AB Construct and ACM Delta: Romanian construction companies.
• Orifisa IKC: An engineering and consulting firm.
• European Investment Bank (EIB): The long-term lending institution of the European Union.
• Systra: An international engineering and consulting firm specializing in transport infrastructure.
• Max Bögl: An international construction company with a Romanian subsidiary.