Hitachi-Bulgaria Rail: Signalling Maintenance, Sofia-Plovdiv Corridor

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Introduction

Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD for the maintenance of signalling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor, as part of a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC).

Partnership and Agreement

Hitachi Rail is partnering with Alokor EAD through a Service Level Agreement (SLA) signed with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). This collaboration aims to ensure the reliability of Bulgaria’s railway infrastructure.

Scope of Work

Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail will manage the supply and repair of spare parts for most of the signalling systems. These include electronic interlockings (IXL), ETCS Level 1, Centralised Traffic Control (CTC), and associated field elements.

Duration and Impact

The agreement covers a two-year period. The SLA aims to ensure high reliability of the signalling infrastructure on two of Bulgaria’s key rail routes. This is intended to optimize train traffic for both operators and passengers.

The partnership seeks to reduce the risk of system failures. This approach is intended to support long-term network stability and more predictable maintenance schedules, contributing to fewer disruptions and improved service quality.

Historical Context

Hitachi Rail previously equipped the Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines, covering a total of around 200 kilometres, with 17 electronic interlockings and ETCS Level 1 technology almost a decade ago.

The new agreement focuses on maintaining this existing infrastructure, underscoring the strategic role of the corridor that connects Europe and Asia.

Conclusion

Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD for the maintenance of signalling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor, as part of a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). The agreement covers a two-year period and focuses on maintaining existing infrastructure, underscoring the strategic role of the corridor that connects Europe and Asia.

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support for the maintenance of signalling systems.

Alokor EAD: Alokor EAD is a partner and participant in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC).

National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC): NRIC signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Alokor EAD.

Technology

Electronic Interlockings (IXL): Hitachi Rail will manage the supply and repair of spare parts for Electronic Interlockings (IXL).

ETCS Level 1: Hitachi Rail will manage the supply and repair of spare parts for ETCS Level 1.

Centralised Traffic Control (CTC): Hitachi Rail will manage the supply and repair of spare parts for Centralised Traffic Control (CTC).

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