Eskisehir-Kutahya-Balikesir (EKB) Railway Modernisation: Project Profile

The Eskisehir-Kutahya-Balikesir (EKB) Railway Modernisation is a strategic infrastructure project by Turkish State Railways (TCDD) to upgrade 328 km of conventional line with European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 1/2 signalling. This comprehensive upgrade targets a maximum operational speed of 160 km/h, significantly increasing freight and passenger capacity and enhancing safety across Turkey’s Aegean region. The project integrates state-of-the-art signalling, telecommunications, and control systems to create a high-performance rail corridor aligned with European interoperability standards.

Technical Specifications

Signalling and Control Systems

The core of the EKB line’s technological upgrade is the deployment of Alstom’s ERTMS-compliant solutions. This includes the implementation of European Train Control System (ETCS) Levels 1 and 2, which provide continuous train supervision and significantly enhance operational safety. Alstom supplied its Atlas on-board signalling system for 26 locomotives, the Smartlock interlocking solution for trackside control, and the Iconis integrated traffic control centre for centralised network management. This integrated system architecture ensures seamless command and control, optimises train movements, and provides robust collision avoidance capabilities, aligning the corridor with European interoperability standards.

Communications and Infrastructure

Reliable data and voice transmission is facilitated by a robust telecommunications backbone provided by Huawei. The project incorporates a GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway) network for secure communication between train drivers and the control centre, and a Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) system for high-capacity data transfer. In addition to technological upgrades, the project involved significant civil works, including the conversion of single-track sections to double-track to eliminate bottlenecks and increase line capacity. New technical equipment buildings, level crossing systems, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems were installed to support the new signalling and communication infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Interoperability and Safety: The adoption of ERTMS/ETCS aligns a key Turkish rail corridor with European standards, enabling future cross-border traffic and drastically improving safety protocols through automated train control.
• Increased Corridor Capacity: The combination of double-tracking and advanced traffic management allows for higher train frequency and speeds up to 160 km/h, boosting both passenger and freight throughput in a critical economic region.
• Regional Economic Catalyst: By creating a faster and more reliable transport link, the modernised EKB line stimulates economic activity by reducing logistics costs and improving connectivity for industries and communities in the Aegean region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the primary goal of the Eskisehir-Kutahya-Balikesir railway modernisation?

The primary goal was to upgrade the 328-kilometer line with modern ERTMS signalling and telecommunications to increase operational speed to 160 km/h, improve safety, and significantly boost both passenger and freight capacity in Turkey’s Aegean region.

Who were the main contractors for the EKB railway project?

The project was led by Turkish State Railways (TCDD). The main contractors included Alstom for the signalling and control systems, Huawei for the GSM-R telecommunications infrastructure, and FMK Ray for consultancy and design services.