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The race begins in Tirana for the construction of the railway linking Albania with Montenegro, 136 million euro grant from the EU

by AI | 20.Dec 2024 | Europe in brief AI

This project will rehabilitate 120 km of railway line and modernize 12 train stations, install modern signaling systems and improve safety measures, promote environmentally friendly transport with an electric railway, reducing emissions and providing a greener alternative for goods and passengers.

Opening of the tender for the construction of the Vorë-Hani i Hotit railway in Tirana (Photo: Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy)

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The Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy launched today the tender for the construction of the railway, which connects Albania with Montenegro, a country with which Albania shares history, common traditions, and a great aspiration to become an EU member as soon as possible.

The European Union has awarded its largest ever grant for this project in Albania, 136 million euros.

The Deputy Prime Minister, also the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Belinda Balluku declared at the ceremony for opening the competition, where the EU ambassador, Silvio Gonzato, was also present that this railway makes Albania part of the pan-European corridors.

Balluku emphasized that the construction of this line has an impact not only on the economic and social development of the country but also on the Western Balkan countries.

The procurement process started in the presence of the representatives of the EIB, EBRD.

This project will rehabilitate 120 km of railway line and modernize 12 train stations, install modern signaling systems and improve safety measures, promote environmentally friendly transportation with an electric railway, reducing emissions and providing a greener alternative for goods and passengers.

“By rehabilitating this railway line, we are connecting Albania with other countries in the region and the EU. This project will contribute to Albania’s socio-economic development, creating new opportunities for businesses and people. The rehabilitated railway is also a step towards a greener future. The EU continues to support Albania in achieving sustainable development and regional connectivity,” said among others the EU ambassador, Silvio Gonzato.

The railway is expected to have 12 bridges and a tunnel located in the Lezha area with a length of 320 m. The speed of this railway line is projected at 120 km/h. Based on the feasibility study by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, the journey from Vora to Han of Hoti will average 2 hours. On the other hand, there will be an annual flow of 2.3 million passengers and 900 thousand tons of freight per year. (December 20)

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