Construction of Rail Baltic route set to start in Kohila Municipality in the coming year | Latest Updates

Rail Baltic Estonia (RBE) has taken a significant step forward in the construction of the main route of Rail Baltic, a transformative high-speed railway project that will connect Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to the rest of Europe. The announcement of the first procurement for this ambitious project marks a milestone in the development of modern transportation infrastructure in the Baltic region.

The construction of the main route will commence in Kohila Municipality, starting with a 9.4 kilometer stretch that runs from the border of Harju and Rapla counties to Sihi tee. This section will see the construction of an embankment up to 14 meters wide, signaling the beginning of a major infrastructure development that will enhance connectivity and facilitate economic growth in the region. If the procurement process is successful, construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2023, according to RBE.

The estimated cost of the procurement is €72 million, with a deadline for tender submissions set for March 9. This significant investment underscores the commitment to the Rail Baltic project and highlights the importance of modernizing transportation networks to meet the needs of a growing economy and population.

In addition to the railway embankment, the construction along this stretch will include various additional structures, such as a wildlife crossing in Kohila, a light traffic tunnel at Sihi tee, maintenance and access roads, as well as more than four kilometers of noise barriers. Furthermore, the project calls for the construction of 11 passages for small animals to be integrated into the embankment, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation.

Anvar Salomets, the chairman of the RBE board, emphasized the importance of completing the first section of the route by fall 2027, as outlined in the procurement conditions. He also outlined plans for future construction procurements, including a nearly 5-kilometer section from Ülemiste to Lagedi, with additional sections slated for procurement in 2023. This phased approach to construction reflects a strategic and efficient strategy for advancing the Rail Baltic project.

Reflecting on the progress made in 2022, Salomets expressed satisfaction with the overall developments on Rail Baltic. He highlighted the completion of eight railway junctions and ongoing construction of several others, as well as progress on the Ülemiste Terminal construction. The chairman’s positive assessment of this year’s progress underscores the dedication and commitment of the project stakeholders to realizing the vision of a modern, efficient, and interconnected railway network in the Baltic region.

In conclusion, the announcement of the first procurement for the construction of the main route of Rail Baltic represents a significant milestone in the development of this transformative high-speed railway project. The investment in modern transportation infrastructure will not only enhance connectivity and economic growth but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation. With a clear roadmap for future construction procurements, Rail Baltic is poised to reshape transportation networks in the Baltic region and strengthen ties with the rest of Europe.