Czech Republic: Ore Mountains Rail Upgrade, Tech & Passenger Experience

Czech Republic Embarks on Ambitious Ore Mountains Rail Corridor Upgrade

In a significant boost to regional connectivity and passenger experience, Správa železnic, the Czech railway infrastructure manager, is undertaking a large-scale modernisation of the Ore Mountains rail corridor. This multi-billion Czech Koruna (CZK) project, funded by the State Fund for Transport Infrastructure, will drastically improve rail services between Chomutov and Kadaň, with construction set to be completed by the end of 2026. The initiative aims to enhance safety, increase line speeds to 160 km/h, and provide step-free access for all passengers. This article will examine the scope of the project, its key technical components, the benefits for passengers and the wider industry implications.

Key Players and Financial Investment

The CZK 3.3 billion (EUR 132 million) contract for the Chomutov-Kadaň section has been awarded to a consortium comprising Chládek & Tintěra, Elektrizace železnic Praha, and Colas CZ, who submitted the lowest bid. The project is a key element of the broader Ore Mountains rail corridor upgrade. Beyond this, the Kyjice–Chomutov section reconstruction, valued at over CZK 3 billion (EUR 121.3 million), is proposed for co-financing by the European Union through the Cohesion Fund under the Transport 2021–2027 Programme, potentially receiving up to CZK 2.2 billion (EUR 91 million) in EU subsidies. This investment reflects a commitment to modernising the region’s rail infrastructure.

Innovations in Track and Infrastructure Modernization

The project involves the complete overhaul of over 12 kilometres of track, including the modernisation of four bridges and 19 culverts. The overhead line system is being upgraded to an alternating current (AC) power supply, leading to energy savings and reduced maintenance requirements. Safety improvements are also a priority, with the removal of a level crossing near Blahuňov and its replacement with a road overpass. The signalling and safety system will also be modernized. At Kadaň-Prunéřov stop, existing platforms will be refurbished and a new one added, with step-free access provided via lifts. Similar improvements will be implemented at Málkov stop, relocated closer to the village with a refurbished footbridge. In Chomutov, the level crossing between Kamencové jezero and the local zoo will be replaced by a pedestrian footbridge. These enhancements will provide improved accessibility and passenger comfort.

Enhancements to Passenger Experience and Operational Efficiency

The modernization program is designed to drastically improve the passenger experience. Refurbished platforms, new lifts for step-free access, new shelters, benches, and clear information and wayfinding systems will be introduced at key stops, including Kadaň-Prunéřov and Málkov. The implementation of advanced signalling and safety systems will enhance operational efficiency and reliability. These measures are crucial for attracting more passengers to rail travel and boosting public transport use in the region.

Wider Ore Mountains Corridor Upgrades

Complementing the Chomutov-Kadaň project, Správa železnic is also upgrading an 8-kilometre section between Chomutov město and Kyjice. Colas was awarded a CZK 1.9 billion (EUR 78 million) contract for this work, with completion expected in 2027. Two stops will be modernized, and line speed will be increased. Additionally, the station building in Teplice v Čechách was fully renovated in 2024, along with the line segment towards Ústí nad Labem, and new stops were created in Krupka and Bohosudov. These projects underline the broader vision to create a modern and effective rail network across the Ore Mountains region. As part of the modernisation program, an architectural competition is underway to select a design for a new integrated rail and bus transport terminal in Chomutov.

Conclusion

Správa železnic’s comprehensive modernisation of the Ore Mountains rail corridor represents a significant step towards a more efficient, sustainable, and accessible transportation network in the Czech Republic. The projects will improve passenger experience by enhancing safety and accessibility, and increasing line speeds. The investments in infrastructure, including track upgrades, overhead line improvements, and the implementation of modern signalling systems, will undoubtedly contribute to increased operational efficiency and reliability. Furthermore, the planned upgrades, especially in the context of international cooperation and high-speed rail projects, position the Czech Republic as a key player in Central European transport. The commitment to incorporating EU funding mechanisms showcases a strategic approach to leveraging resources for long-term infrastructure development. The continued collaboration with the German side, including the development of the Ore Mountains Tunnel, will further improve the connectivity of the region by easing the burden on the already overloaded rail network. Looking ahead, the successful completion of these projects will serve as a template for future rail modernization initiatives, fostering a more sustainable and interconnected transport ecosystem for the Czech Republic.