Significant progress has been made on the modernisation of the railway line connecting Bucharest to Giurgiu Nord, with the project now at 12% completion. The project aims to enhance connectivity between Romania and Bulgaria, with full operations expected to resume by September 2028.
Project Overview and Financial Details
The modernisation project of the railway line from Bucharest Progresu to Giurgiu Nord, which is part of the strategic Lot 2 under the objective of modernising the railway infrastructure between Bucharest Nord and the Bulgarian border, is valued at 2.108 billion lei, excluding VAT. The contract is being executed by the RailWorks consortium, led by Arcada Company in partnership with Alstom Transport. This initiative covers a total of 93.45 kilometres of single railway line, and the financial backing comes from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) 2021-2027, with additional co-funding from the Romanian state budget.
Scope of Works and Technological Upgrades
The project involves extensive upgrades to the railway infrastructure, including the electrification of the entire route, modernisation of signalling and telecommunications systems, and the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2. Notably, the construction of a 323-metre viaduct at Daia is crucial for ensuring a stable route for freight trains. Alstom is responsible for the electrification and signalling solutions, while Arcada Company focuses on civil engineering works. Upon completion, the maximum speed for passenger trains is projected to reach 160 km/h, significantly enhancing travel times.
Strategic Importance and Historical Context
The railway line not only facilitates passenger transport between Bucharest and Giurgiu but also serves as a vital link in the European TEN-T network, connecting Romania with Bulgaria and further to Greece and Turkey. This modernisation is particularly significant as the Bucharest-Giurgiu line is the first railway constructed in Romania, inaugurated in 1869. The current upgrades represent a major revitalisation effort, following a previous phase that restored direct services after a 19-year hiatus. The completion of this project is expected to substantially increase traffic capacity and reduce travel times, thereby promoting a shift from road to rail transport.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Project Value | 2.108 billion lei |
| Completion Status | 12% as of July 31, 2026 |
| Total Length of Line | 93.45 kilometres |
| Expected Full Operations | September 2028 |
| Maximum Speed for Passenger Trains | 160 km/h |
“The completion of this investment will lead to a significant increase in traffic capacity and reduced travel times between Bucharest and the southern border.”
WHY IT MATTERS
This project enhances Romania’s connectivity with Bulgaria and supports European transport networks, reflecting the importance of modern infrastructure in regional development.
Reported from economedia.ro, 2026-08-13. The Tender Wire is published by Otnox.
