Czech Republic ETCS Rollout: Správa Železnic’s Railway Modernization Success

Introduction

Správa železnic has completed the European Train Control System (ETCS) installation on the Brno – Zastávka railway, with the launch planned for mid-December. The 20 km line joins the modernized rail network.

Modernization and Reconstruction

The ETCS deployment on the 20 km Brno–Horní Heršpice – Zastávka u Brna line follows a full reconstruction program carried out between 2020 and 2024. Správa železnic received an award in the Construction of the Year competition for this project.

Project Details and Implementation

The modernization included the addition of a second track between Střelice and Zastávka, followed by the electrification of the entire 20 km section. According to Mojmír Nejezchleb, Deputy Director General of Správa železnic for Line Modernisation, the ETCS installation will allow trains to take full advantage of the permitted line speeds. The upgraded line has been fitted with base-station masts equipped with antennas for receiving GSM-R radio signals, radio block centres, and the required software. Communication between the trackside and on-board ETCS equipment is provided by balises installed directly in the track. AŽD delivered both the construction design and the implementation. The total project costs amount to CZK 495 million (EUR 20.5 million).

Financial Aspects and Funding

The ETCS installation on the Brno – Zastávka railway builds on the recent modernization and electrification of the whole section, with construction work on the signalling upgrade under way since 2023. The project is co-financed by the European Union’s Cohesion Fund under the Transport Programme 2021–2027. Eligible costs total CZK 421.4 million (EUR 17.5 million), with the EU covering 85%—a maximum contribution of CZK 358.2 million (EUR 14.9 million). Additional financing is provided through a European Investment Bank loan under the Czech Rail TEN-T and Safety project, with national funding from the State Transport Infrastructure Fund.

National ETCS Implementation

In January 2025, Správa železnic commissioned ETCS on 622 km of the main Czech railway network. The aim is to equip the entire 5,200 km TEN-T network by 2030. In February, the infrastructure manager also reported key findings from ETCS-only operations, showing 99% reliability.

Conclusion

Správa železnic has finished the ETCS installation on the Brno – Zastávka railway, which is planned to launch in mid-December. The project involved the modernization and electrification of the line and was co-financed by the European Union and other sources.

Company Summary

Správa železnic: The Czech rail infrastructure manager.

AŽD: Delivered both the construction design and the implementation.

Technology

ETCS (European Train Control System): The system installed on the Brno – Zastávka railway.

GSM-R: The radio communication system used.