Santiago–Batuco Train: CRCC’s USD 470M Surface Rail Project

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Introduction

EFE Trenes de Chile has awarded a USD 470 million contract to Constructora Gran Andes SpA for civil and surface railway works on the Santiago–Batuco Train project. The contract covers the Mapocho–Batuco surface section and includes the construction of six stations, with surface construction scheduled to begin in December this year.

Surface Railway Works Contract

The contract, valued at USD 470 million, was awarded to the consortium Constructora Gran Andes SpA. This consortium comprises China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and its subsidiaries CR22 and CRCEB. The agreement specifically addresses the Mapocho–Batuco surface section of the Santiago–Batuco Train project.

Key Infrastructure Components

The surface section construction involves several key infrastructure elements. The consortium will be responsible for segregating railway tracks, allocating two for passenger services and one for freight operations. In addition, the project includes the construction of seven rail bridges, 12 pedestrian crossings, and five vehicle crossings. All crossings are designed as grade-separated structures. Six stations will be built to high standards of universal accessibility, urban integration, and safety.

Project Timeline and Scope

Surface construction is planned to commence in December, with the arrival of new electric trains anticipated in 2027. The Santiago–Batuco Train project encompasses an underground section as well. The total investment for the project is estimated at USD 950 million, covering a 26 km line with eight stations. The line will be operated by 10 new electric trains, currently under construction.

Future Development and Service Details

A tender for the construction of the underground section is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2025. Partial service on the Batuco–Quilicura section is planned to begin in 2028. The line is projected to be fully operational by 2030, with an estimated 35 million passengers per year. The line will offer connections to Metro lines 3, 5, and 7, linking the northern area of the Santiago Metropolitan Region with the city centre.

Conclusion

The Santiago–Batuco Train project, part of the Trains for Chile programme, aims to connect five municipalities in the northern part of the Metropolitan Region with central Santiago. The project will improve public transport accessibility and capacity.

EFE Trenes de Chile

EFE Trenes de Chile is the organization behind the Santiago–Batuco Train project.

Constructora Gran Andes SpA

Constructora Gran Andes SpA is a consortium comprising China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and its subsidiaries CR22 and CRCEB. It has been awarded a contract for civil and surface railway works on the Santiago–Batuco Train project.

China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC)

China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) is part of the Constructora Gran Andes SpA consortium and involved in the Santiago–Batuco Train project.

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