Serbia Rail Upgrade: Sleeping Cars, Niš Bypass, & Border Crossing

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Introduction

Srbijavoz, Serbia’s state-owned passenger rail operator, will receive a €42 million loan to purchase 12 new railway sleeping cars for international routes. The new equipment will be introduced on the existing Belgrade-Bar route, replacing rolling stock that does not comply with EU regulations. The loan agreement was signed by Ljubiša Pejičić, acting director general of Srbijavoz, and guaranteed by Siniša Mali, first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Jelena Čeperković, EBRD Deputy Head for Serbia.

New Sleeping Car Acquisition

Srbijavoz is set to receive a €42 million loan to fund the acquisition of 12 new railway sleeping cars. These cars are intended for use on international routes, specifically the Belgrade-Bar route, which links Serbia and Montenegro. The purpose of this acquisition is to replace the current rolling stock, which no longer adheres to EU regulations.

Route Deployment and Expansion Plans

The new sleeping cars will initially be deployed on the Belgrade-Bar route. Srbijavoz also intends to utilize the updated fleet on future routes connecting Serbia with neighboring EU countries. This aligns with EU standards for cross-border rail services.

Niš Railway Bypass Construction

In July 2024, construction commenced on a €153.6 million railway bypass around the city of Niš. This project is part of a broader modernization and reconstruction effort on the Niš–Dimitrovgrad railway line. The bypass involves building a single-track, electrified line from Niš–Ranžirna station to Sićevo station, along with the electrification of the Crveni Krst section that connects to the new bypass.

Joint Rail Border Crossing Project

Construction began in January 2024 on the first joint rail border crossing between North Macedonia and Serbia. This project is funded by a €5 million loan and a €2.5 million EU grant. The crossing is located on Corridor X of the Trans-European Transport Network and aims to enhance Western Balkans connectivity.

Conclusion

Srbijavoz will receive a €42 million loan to purchase new sleeping cars for international routes, replacing non-compliant rolling stock. Serbia has also initiated a €153.6 million railway bypass project around Niš and a joint rail border crossing with North Macedonia, supported by a €5 million loan and a €2.5 million EU grant.

Company Summary

Srbijavoz: Serbia’s state-owned passenger rail operator.

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