Implementation period: 02.2013-12.2014

  Vidin-Sofia-Radomir-Kulata railway line is an important element of the Trans-European railway network- Transport Corridor IV and one of the priority axes of the European Commission – Railway Axis 22: Athens-Sofia-Budapest-Vienna-Prague-Nuremberg/Dresden. Therefore, the modernisation of this section (Radomir-Kulata) is of strategic importance, especially as it is also a border railway section.

        For the purpose of coordination and implementation of the project, a Cooperation Agreement between four countries, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, has been prepared, agreed and signed at the level of “railway infrastructure managers”.

Priority Project 22 (railway) provides for the implementation of preparatory pre-investment studies for pre-approved railway sections in the four countries under the agreement. The subject of the agreement is “Technical assistance for the modernisation of Radomir-Kulata railway line” as part of the “Studies regarding the construction of Priority Project 22 (railway)” on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

        After the implementation of the project the set objectives have been achieved, namely:

Modernised section in accordance with the full requirements for interoperability of infrastructure, facilities, rolling stock, control, operation, and safety systems as required by Directive 2008/57/EC and its subsequent amendments.

Implementation of the European Commission’s policy to develop this main rail corridor and achieve connectivity of transport networks on the basis of common standards.

Increasing the volume of freight transported along the line.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the competitiveness of rail transport.

Achieving economic and social cohesion in the country’s regional development.

Modernisation of a significant infrastructure element of national and international importance for Pan-European transport corridor IV, Rail Freight Corridor 7, and Railway Axis 22.