EDzL informs that, in planning for the active phase of the construction works of the ”Rail Baltica” main track, local residents and interested parties will be able to learn more about the progress of the project’s construction works and how this infrastructure project will affect the Bauska region and the local community during the informative days.
Next Wednesday, December 11, EDzL, together with the Ministry of Transport (MoT), “ERB Rail”, the Iecava association governance and the Bauska county council, will inform cooperation organizations about the upcoming works on the Iecava side this year and in 2025, as well as introduce the main track construction team.
On December 12 and 13, residents will be invited to attend informative days at the Iecava Culture House to familiarize themselves with informational materials on the construction of the main line, as well as to meet with EDzL and “ERB Rail” experts.
EDzL board chairman Āriks Diļevs states that the implementation of the “Rail Baltica” project in Latvia has reached the next phase – in cooperation with the builder, engineering network holders, state and local government authorities, all the necessary preparations have been made to start construction on the main track section in the Bauska district near Iecava.
EDzL reminds that the construction works of the main line include the construction of “Rail Baltica” outside the city limits of Riga. The builder will have to ensure the construction of the infrastructure of the main track of the “Rail Baltica” railway line, approximately 230 kilometers long - the construction of track substructures and superstructures, including land preparation, construction of embankments, railway bridges, roads, road underpasses, overpasses, relocation of engineering networks, rails and ballast installation.
LETA already announced that in December 2023, EDzL and the general company “ERB Rail JV” signed a contract in the amount of 3.7 billion euros for the construction of the main track of “Rail Baltica”. The general partnership “ERB rail JV” consists of the French ”Eiffage Génie Civil”,the Polish ”Budimex” and the Italian “Rizzani de Eccher”,which won an international competition.
Simultaneously occurring, the representatives of the MoU previously stated that by signing the agreement, Latvia undertakes state budget obligations only for the first round of construction works in the amount of 165 million euros, for which funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEI) has already been secured.
The Ministry of Transport (MoT) states that the government conceptually supported the following priority tasks – how to develop the construction of the cross-border connection of the 1435 millimeter (mm) railway “Rail baltica” from the border of Lithuania/Latvia to the border of Latvia/Estonia sequentially and in accordance with the attraction of funding and accordingly planning the construction works of the track .
Also, the government conceptually supported the completion of construction works at the “Rail Baltica” passenger station at the Riga airport and the southern part of the Riga Central railway station in the minimum scope to ensure their functionality in the existing railway infrastructure.
It is also reported that according to the research report on the situation of the “Rail Baltica” project carried out by the highest audit institutions of the Baltic States, there is currently no clarity about the model of operation and management of the “Rail Baltica” railway line.
According to the latest “RB Rail” information, the costs of the first round of “Rail Baltica” in the Baltics could reach 14.3 billion euros, of which 5.5 billion euros in latvia, however, potential savings of up to 400 million euros are possible from the optimization of technical solutions, and there is other savings are possible.
according to the cost-benefit analysis, the total cost of the project in the Baltics can reach 23.8 billion euros. In the previous cost-benefit analysis in 2017, it was estimated that the project would cost a total of 5.8 billion euros.
The “Rail Baltica” project envisages the creation of a railway line of European standard gauge from Tallinn to the border of Lithuania and Poland, so that it would be possible to connect the Baltic states with other European countries by rail. In the Baltic States, it is indeed planned to build a new, 870-kilometer-long railway line of European gauge (1435 millimeters) with a maximum train speed of 240 kilometers per hour.
How will community engagement impact the progress of the “Rail Baltica” railway project?
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment on key infrastructure developments in the Baltics. Today, we have with us an expert in railway infrastructure, Dr. Liisa Pärn, to discuss the recent developments regarding the “Rail Baltica” project, especially in the Bauska region. Dr. Pärn, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Liisa Pärn: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to discuss such an critically important initiative for the region.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. The Engineering Research and Growth Institute {EDzL) recently announced that they will be hosting informative days for local residents regarding the “Rail Baltica” main track. How significant are these community engagement efforts as the project develops?
Dr. Liisa Pärn: Community engagement is absolutely crucial for projects of this magnitude. It not only helps to inform residents about the progress and implications of construction but also fosters transparency. By providing a platform for discussions, like the upcoming sessions at the Iecava Culture House, stakeholders can address concerns from local residents, which helps to build trust and cooperation.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. The project seems to be at a pivotal stage, especially with plans for more construction work in the Iecava area. What are some of the immediate benefits that residents can expect from the “Rail Baltica” project?
Dr. Liisa Pärn: There are several immediate benefits. first, the construction of high-speed rail will enhance connectivity. Residents will find it easier to travel not only within their region but also to major cities, which can boost local economies. additionally, the project is expected to create jobs both during the construction phase and in the long run, once the railway is operational.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of operational timelines, the chairman of EDzL mentioned that preparations have been made to begin construction in the Bauska district. What’s involved in these preparations, and how long do you anticipate construction will take?
Dr. Liisa Pärn: The preparations typically include robust planning, zoning approvals, and coordination with various stakeholders such as local governments, engineering firms, and utility providers. For a project as complex as “Rail Baltica,” it’s an extensive process. Once construction begins, it can take a few years to complete a section, but the expected timeline can vary based on the challenges encountered along the way, such as environmental considerations and the need for community input.
Time.news Editor: That’s crucial information. the project promises a 230-kilometer railway line that extends outside the city limits of Riga.what impact do you foresee this having on urban planning and development in regions like Iecava and Bauska?
Dr. Liisa Pärn: The impact could be transformative. Improved rail connections can lead to increased investment in infrastructure, housing, and commercial projects as people are attracted to more accessible neighborhoods. It can stimulate economic activities, encourage lasting commuting options, and ultimately reshape the urban landscape. however, it’s also vital that local governments plan wisely to accommodate this growth without altering the character of their communities.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a balancing act. As we wrap up, what message do you have for the local communities about the “Rail Baltica” project?
Dr. Liisa Pärn: I encourage local residents to stay engaged and informed throughout the process. Attend the informative days, voice your concerns, and be proactive in discussions with project stakeholders. This is your community, and your input is invaluable. The triumphant realization of such projects necessitates collaboration between engineers, local authorities, and the public.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Pärn, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that the “Rail Baltica” project is not just about infrastructure—it’s about community, cooperation, and change.
Dr. Liisa Pärn: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure!