Project Profile: Divača-Koper Second Track, Slovenia

The Divača-Koper Second Track project is a landmark Slovenian infrastructure initiative designed to eliminate a critical bottleneck in the European TEN-T Baltic-Adriatic Corridor. This profile details the technical specifications and strategic impact of the new 27.1km line, which provides a modern, high-capacity connection between the Port of Koper and the continental rail network.

Technical Specifications

The new 27.1 km single-track line runs parallel to the existing 1967 route, creating a dual-track corridor with significantly enhanced resilience and capacity. The project’s engineering is dominated by extensive tunneling, with eight separate tunnels (T1-T8) accounting for 20.5 km of the total route length. Major structural works include the 452m Gabrovica viaduct and the 647m Vinjan viaduct, alongside two significant bridges. The line is designed for a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h and will be equipped with state-of-the-art signaling systems, including ERTMS/ETCS Level 2. This advanced train control system, integrated with GSM-R communications, ensures high safety standards and interoperability across the European network.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Bottleneck Elimination: The project resolves the capacity constraints of the original single-track line, which was vulnerable to disruptions and unable to meet modern freight demands. This increases the corridor’s reliability and throughput.
• Economic Catalyst for Port of Koper: By providing a high-efficiency rail link to its hinterland, the second track solidifies the Port of Koper’s position as a primary maritime gateway for Central and Eastern Europe, boosting national and regional trade.
• Alignment with EU Standards: The modernization brings this vital section of the Baltic-Adriatic Corridor into full compliance with TEN-T network requirements, enhancing Slovenia’s integration into the broader European transport system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Divača-Koper second track be operational?

The Divača-Koper second track is scheduled to become fully operational in 2026. This follows the completion of major construction works and the final commissioning and testing phases taking place throughout late 2025.

Who is building the new Divača-Koper railway line?

The primary construction work for the Divača-Koper second track is being carried out by a consortium of companies which includes the Slovenian firm Kolektor CPG and the Bosnian-Herzegovinian company Euroasfalt BIH. Financing involves a combination of Slovenian state funds, loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and SID banka, and grants from the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).