Bulgaria’s Dabova Mahala-Sratsimir Rail Modernization Project

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Introduction

The rail infrastructure manager of Bulgaria, NRIC, has awarded a contract for the design and construction of the Dabova Mahala – Sratsimir section, a key component of the “Modernisation of Vidin – Sofia railway: Medkovets – Sratsimir section” project. The contract, valued at BGN 600 million (EUR 290 million), was awarded to the ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir consortium, with construction activities slated to commence in 2026.

Contract Details and Timeline

The contract awarded to the ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir consortium encompasses a total value of BGN 600 million (EUR 290 million). The implementation period for this project is set at 38 months. This timeframe is split into two phases: a 9-month design stage and a 28-month construction phase.

Scope of Modernization

The modernization project will encompass approximately 31 km of a single, electrified railway line. The scope includes the construction of new infrastructure elements such as overpasses, underpasses, and culverts. Additionally, three new railway stations are planned for Dabova Mahala, Vodnyantsi, and Sratsimir.

Performance Enhancements

Upon completion of the modernization, the railway section is designed to accommodate speeds of up to 160 km/h for passenger trains and 120 km/h for freight trains. This represents a significant increase compared to the current operational speed of 70 km/h.

Strategic Significance

The Dabova Mahala – Sratsimir section is a critical segment of the high-speed railway line, which will establish a vital link between Bulgaria, Western Romania, and Greece, utilizing the Sofia transport hub. The project aims to resolve a problematic section within the European railway network in Southeast Europe, which currently does not align with modern technical standards for passenger and freight transport. The project “Modernisation of the Vidin – Sofia railway line: Dabova Mahala – Sratsimir section” is co-financed by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).

Conclusion

The NRIC has contracted the ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir consortium for the design and construction of the Dabova Mahala – Sratsimir section, part of the “Modernisation of Vidin – Sofia railway: Medkovets – Sratsimir section” project. This project will cost BGN 600 million (EUR 290 million), with a 38-month implementation period and will increase speeds for passenger and freight trains.

Company Summary

NRIC: The rail infrastructure manager of Bulgaria.

ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir: A consortium comprising GBS – “Infrastructure Construction” AD and Duigu Taahhüt Ve Inshaat.

GBS – “Infrastructure Construction” AD: A member of the ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir consortium.

Duigu Taahhüt Ve Inshaat: A member of the ZHP Medkovets- Sratsimir consortium.

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