Chile’s Alameda-Melipilla Rail: ETF, Colas Rail Project Details

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Introduction

A consortium composed of VINCI Construction subsidiary ETF and Colas Rail has been awarded a €100 million contract to construct a 21.5 km section of the Alameda–Melipilla railway line in Chile. The project, commissioned by EFE (Empresa de Ferrocarriles del Estado), will link Santiago with the southwest region of the country and is scheduled to commence at the end of August 2025.

Project Overview

The contract, awarded by the Dragados-Besalco construction consortium, will be equally divided between ETF and Colas Rail. The project duration is set for three years and encompasses the dismantling of existing tracks, the provision of materials such as rails, sleepers, ballast, and overhead lines, and the construction and commissioning of a new suburban line.

Technical Specifications

The second stretch of the Alameda–Melipilla line spans 21.5 kilometers and will feature three new tracks equipped with overhead lines. Two tracks will be dedicated to passenger services, while one will be reserved for freight transport.

Anticipated Benefits

Upon completion, the line is expected to accommodate 57 million passengers annually. The project aims to reduce journey times by one hour.

Company Statements

Fabrice Guégan, CEO of ETF, stated, “ETF has been operating in Chile since it built Santiago’s first metro line. Leveraging over 40 years’ experience working on Chile’s largest urban and national railway projects, ETF is currently helping to maintain all the metro lines in Santiago. This new suburban contract bolsters ETF’s commitment to develop low-carbon transport in Chile.”

Hervé Le Joliff, CEO of Colas Rail, explained, “After winning the call for tenders to maintain Santiago’s five metro lines at the beginning of the year, this new contract solidifies the Group’s roots and adds fresh momentum to the efforts of our teams in the Chilean rail market. Colas Rail has thereby positioned itself as a key player ahead of the major railway projects announced by local authorities in 2025.”

Conclusion

ETF and Colas Rail will construct a 21.5 km section of the Alameda–Melipilla railway line under a €100 million contract awarded by Dragados-Besalco. The project, commissioned by EFE, is scheduled to begin at the end of August 2025 and is expected to accommodate 57 million passengers annually, reducing journey times by one hour.

Company Summary

ETF: A subsidiary of VINCI Construction, ETF has experience in railway projects, including the construction and maintenance of metro lines.

Colas Rail: A company that is involved in railway projects, including maintenance and construction.

EFE (Empresa de Ferrocarriles del Estado): The public company managing the national rail network in Chile.

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