Hitachi Rail Bulgaria Signalling: Boosting Railway Infrastructure Stability

“`html

Introduction

Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and specialist support to Alokor EAD for the maintenance of signalling systems on the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor in Bulgaria under a service level agreement (SLA) with the National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC).

Scope of Work

Hitachi Rail will supply and repair spare parts for a significant portion of the signalling infrastructure. This infrastructure includes electronic interlockings, European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1, Centralised Traffic Control (CTC), and associated field components.

Agreement Details

The agreement covers a two-year period and aims to ensure stable operation of signalling systems across two of Bulgaria’s main rail routes. The SLA is designed to reduce the risk of major equipment failures and facilitate scheduled maintenance.

Executive Commentary

Manfred Zekl, branch head of Hitachi Rail Austria and Bulgaria, stated that Hitachi Rail has extensive experience in supporting Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with advanced technology and reliable service. He added that the agreement reflects their commitment to sustainability and long-term partnerships in European rail transport.

Previous Projects

Hitachi Rail has been active in Bulgaria for nearly a decade, having equipped the nearly 200km long Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines with 17 electronic interlockings and ETCS Level 1. Recently, Hitachi Rail completed the deployment of new signalling systems on Hungary’s Szajol–Debrecen railway line.