Norway Rail Upgrade: New Passing Loop Enhances Capacity

Norway’s Rail Infrastructure Gets a Boost: New Passing Loop to Enhance Kongsvinger Line Capacity

Oslo, Norway – July 26, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster its rail freight and passenger transport capabilities, Bane NOR (the Norwegian state-owned railway infrastructure manager) has awarded a contract to Anlegg Øst Entreprenør for the construction of a new passing loop on the Kongsvinger Line. This strategic investment aims to address the growing demands for longer freight trains, improve operational efficiency, and enhance safety along this vital railway corridor. The Kongsvinger Line, a critical artery connecting Lillestrøm and Kongsvinger, also serves as a gateway to Sweden. This project is a part of a larger initiative to upgrade the line in phases, ultimately leading to increased capacity and improved services for both freight and passenger operations. This upgrade underscores Norway’s commitment to modernizing its rail network and facilitating seamless transportation across borders.

Expanding Capacity: The Strategic Importance of the Galterud Passing Loop

The core of this project revolves around the construction of a new passing loop at Galterud, situated approximately 90 km east of Oslo. While a shorter passing loop already exists at the Galterud Station, its limitations restrict the efficient handling of longer freight trains. The newly designed loop will be significantly longer, accommodating 740-meter-long freight trains, which represents a substantial improvement over the current constraints. The construction, scheduled to commence in the summer, involves building an embankment within the Glomma River to extend the track between the Huvnes and Gulli Bridges. This enhancement is crucial as it directly addresses the increasing demand for transporting goods via rail, which is central to Norway’s freight transport strategy. This expansion is not just about moving more goods; it’s about improving the efficiency of the existing network and reducing congestion.

Phased Upgrades: A Comprehensive Approach to Infrastructure Improvement

The Galterud passing loop is just one component of a larger, phased upgrade of the Kongsvinger Line. Bane NOR plans to invest approximately NOK 1.5 billion (around EUR 130.6 million) in this comprehensive project, which encompasses several key improvements beyond the Galterud loop. This first phase of the upgrade, also includes projects at Rånåsfoss, Seterstøa, and Bodung. The integration of these projects is essential to achieving the desired boost in freight capacity. Furthermore, plans are underway to expand the Norsenga timber terminal at Kongsvinger Station, which highlights the strategic importance of the line in facilitating timber transport. This approach ensures that the infrastructure evolves systematically, minimizing disruption while maximizing the benefits across various aspects of railway operations, including freight, passenger, and cross-border services.

Enhanced Safety and Service: Benefits for Passengers and Freight Operators

Beyond capacity enhancements, the project includes crucial safety improvements. Bane NOR will replace several unsecured level crossings with modern, barrier-equipped alternatives. This initiative will enhance safety for both rail users and the surrounding communities. The Kongsvinger Line currently handles a significant volume of traffic, including local, regional, and international services. Approximately 65% of the traffic consists of local trains, 20% of freight trains, and 15% of regional and long-distance services to and from Sweden. The upgrade is therefore expected to offer greater flexibility for passenger services and the introduction of more frequent or faster trains. Additionally, the project’s focus on the freight capacity will contribute to the increased efficiency of goods transportation, making rail transport a more attractive option for businesses.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for a Modern and Efficient Rail Network

The investment in the Kongsvinger Line, particularly the construction of the new passing loop at Galterud, reflects Bane NOR’s commitment to upgrading Norway’s railway infrastructure. The project’s significance lies not only in the enhanced freight capacity but also in the improved safety and service quality for passengers and freight operators. The phased approach, integrating multiple upgrades, including those at Rånåsfoss, Seterstøa, and Bodung, underscores a comprehensive strategy aimed at maximizing the long-term benefits of the investment. The completion of this project, scheduled for autumn 2026, will represent a crucial milestone in the enhancement of rail transport across Norway. This upgrade will allow for larger freight trains, reducing congestion and facilitating a more efficient movement of goods. Moreover, the improvements to level crossings will result in increased safety for the surrounding communities. Ultimately, the modernized Kongsvinger Line will play an important role in supporting sustainable transportation, fostering economic growth, and strengthening cross-border connections with Sweden. This project is a testament to the strategic vision of Bane NOR in creating a modern and efficient rail network that meets the evolving needs of its users.

Company Summary

* Bane NOR: The state-owned railway infrastructure manager in Norway, responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of the national rail network.
* Anlegg Øst Entreprenør: The construction company selected by Bane NOR to build the new passing loop at Galterud.