Dugo Selo-Križevci Rail Line Modernisation: Enhancing Railway Capacity and Safety

This article explores the comprehensive modernisation of the Dugo Selo-Križevci railway line in Croatia, a crucial component of the broader Mediterranean Corridor RH2 (Railway Line 2). The project aims to significantly enhance the railway’s capacity, safety, and efficiency, contributing to a more robust and sustainable transportation network within the European Union’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The modernisation will facilitate a shift from road to rail transport, reducing congestion and environmental impact while improving the quality of life for communities along the line. This undertaking involves substantial infrastructure upgrades, including track doubling, bridge construction and reconstruction, elimination of level crossings, and the implementation of advanced signaling and telecommunications systems. The project’s economic impact is considerable, not only through EU funding but also through stimulating local employment and attracting further investment in the region. The successful completion of this project will serve as a model for future rail infrastructure improvements across Europe, highlighting the importance of sustainable and efficient railway systems in modern transportation.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Enhancements

The core of the Dugo Selo-Križevci modernisation lies in its extensive infrastructure improvements. The project entails the construction of a second track along the entire 38.2km length of the line, effectively doubling its capacity and allowing for increased train frequency and speed. This is complemented by the construction of six new bridges and the reconstruction of seven existing ones, ensuring structural integrity and accommodating the higher axle loads. A key safety feature is the removal of 17 level crossings and two passenger crossings, replaced by 11 new overpasses, one underpass, and six subways. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents at grade crossings. Further enhancing operational efficiency, 25km of new service roads have been constructed, facilitating maintenance and access along the line. The modernisation extends to the electrical traction systems, telecommunications infrastructure, and signalling and interlocking systems, ensuring compliance with the latest European standards and facilitating smooth train operation.

Station and Stop Improvements

The project encompasses improvements to existing railway stations and stops. The stations at Dugo Selo, Vrbovec, and Križevci are undergoing complete reconstruction, while the stops at Božjakovina and Repinec are being renewed. A new station is being built at Gradec, providing additional access points for passengers and enhancing accessibility along the line. These improvements aim to provide passengers with a more modern and comfortable travel experience, boosting ridership and attracting new users to the rail system. Improvements in accessibility, comfort, and aesthetics are vital factors in shifting passenger preferences from road to rail.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

The modernisation project directly contributes to environmental sustainability and economic growth. By increasing rail capacity and encouraging a shift from road transport, the project contributes to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality in the region. The project also aims to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents significantly. Economically, the project creates jobs during the construction phase and stimulates further investment in the region by improving transport efficiency and making the area more attractive for business and investment. The EU co-financing plays a vital role in this process, ensuring the financial feasibility of such a large-scale undertaking.

Project Completion and Future Implications

Upon completion, trains on the modernised Dugo Selo-Križevci line will operate at a speed of 160km/h, with a 25-tonne axle load capacity. This increase in speed and carrying capacity will drastically improve transit times and facilitate the movement of larger volumes of freight. The enhanced safety measures, including overpasses, underpasses, and service roads, create a safer environment for both passengers and railway workers. The project’s success serves as a benchmark for future railway upgrades in Croatia and beyond, showcasing the significant benefits of modernisation in terms of efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The improved connectivity will also stimulate economic growth within the region, particularly within the logistics and transportation sectors.

Conclusions

The Dugo Selo-Križevci railway line modernisation project represents a significant investment in Croatia’s rail infrastructure, contributing to the development of a high-efficiency, double-track railway line as part of the Mediterranean Corridor RH2. The project’s success is evidenced by the comprehensive nature of the upgrades, which include track doubling, bridge construction and reconstruction, the elimination of dangerous level crossings, and the modernization of signaling and telecommunications systems. The improvements to stations and stops enhance the passenger experience, promoting a shift from road to rail travel. The project’s economic and environmental benefits are substantial, creating jobs, stimulating investment, and contributing to a more sustainable transportation system. The 85% EU co-financing demonstrates the project’s alignment with European transport priorities. The completion of the project will result in increased train speeds (160 km/h), higher axle load capacity (25 tonnes), and significantly improved safety. The enhanced capacity and efficiency of the line will contribute to the overall development of the Croatian railway network and its integration into the broader European transport system. The successful implementation of this project serves as a model for future rail infrastructure development, demonstrating the significant benefits of investing in modern, efficient, and sustainable railway systems.

The project’s success hinges on several factors: effective project management, strong collaboration between involved parties, and the commitment to adhering to the highest safety and quality standards. The involvement of multiple companies such as DIV, Dalekovod, Zagreb Montaža (construction consortium), SGS Adriatica and Investinzenjering (supervision consortium) highlights the complex nature of the undertaking and the expertise needed for successful execution. The project ultimately provides a compelling case study for how substantial investment in railway infrastructure can lead to improved transport efficiency, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, setting a precedent for future rail projects across Europe and beyond.

Company Information:

• DIV: [Insert brief information about DIV]
• Dalekovod: [Insert brief information about Dalekovod]
• Zagreb Montaža: [Insert brief information about Zagreb Montaža]
• SGS Adriatica: [Insert brief information about SGS Adriatica]
• Investinženjering: [Insert brief information about Investinženjering]