The railway line between Kiskunfélegyháza and Szeged is renewed

The EU public procurement announcements for the planning and implementation of the modernisation of the Kiskunfélegyháza–Szeged-Rendező railway line section. The aim of the project is to ensure that the approximately 59-kilometre-long section stretching across the two counties will in future serve passenger and freight traffic with a modern railway track capable of speeds of 160 kilometres per hour and an axle load of 225 kilonewtons. The investment includes the complete reconstruction of the line and the related design and construction tasks.

Traffic can move on two tracks

The development would increase the competitiveness of rail transport in the region by removing bottlenecks and optimising track geometry. The modernisation will reduce the number of train crossings, improve timetable punctuality and make travel and freight traffic more predictable.
The investment will include the construction of double track sections in some places, which will significantly increase the throughput capacity of the network. In addition to the track construction, the entire overhead line and power supply system will be renewed.

Stations are modernised

Stations along the line will be completely reconstructed, including Kiskunfélegyháza, Petőfiszállás, Csengele, Kistelek, Balástya, Szatymaz, Kiskundorozsma and Szeged-Kecskés, which will also receive new, modern passenger facilities. All stations will have barrier-free platforms 55 centimetres above the track crown, with lifts and underpasses for easy access. State-of-the-art lighting, new platform roofs and intelligent passenger information systems represent a 21st century level of service. P+R and B+R car parks will be built around the stations, providing an integrated link between rail and road and cycling traffic.

New bridge also under construction

In terms of structures, a new bridge will be built to provide a separate road and rail crossing, while existing structures and crossings will be renovated after review. Thirty-two road crossings will be provided with light and semi-differential protection to improve road safety, and three existing crossings will be removed. The open line and station drainage system will be upgraded, and noise barriers will be built alongside the railway track, for a total length of about 1.2 km. The works will also involve the demolition, renovation or reconstruction of around one hundred and eighty buildings.

The contractor will be able to work in cycles

The modernisation of the signalling system will include the construction of electrically controlled switchgear and new telecommunications networks, combined with modern asset protection and fire alarm systems. Passenger information and train control systems will be upgraded to current standards. Bidders will have to comply with the project-specific track access conditions, which require 2 days of through traffic for freight traffic on the entire section after a 5 day construction cycle.
The development of Line 140 is not only a renewal of the railway infrastructure, but also a strategic step forward in the economic and transport integration of the Southern Great Plain region. The modernised railway line will allow for shorter journey times, more reliable trains and improved service quality, with tangible benefits for both passengers and carriers.
The deadline for tenders is 11 December.