Wedoany.com Report-Dec 16, The investment aligns with the Council of State’s objectives to promote rail as a sustainable alternative to road freight, particularly for the transport of bulk materials such as gravel.

The Council of State of the third largest Swiss canton of Vaud with capital Lausanne has proposed a funding package to support rail freight transport in the Vaud region, with a significant portion allocated for the acquisition of two new locomotives from Stadler. The locomotives, intended for the regional transport operator Morges Bière Cossonay SA (MBC), will replace aging equipment used to transport construction materials.

Stadler locomotives to sustain rail freight operations

The proposed budget allocates 20.7 million francs to procure the Stadler locomotives, ensuring the continuity of freight operations on the MBC network. These new units will take over from existing locomotives reaching the end of their service life. The MBC network currently handles approximately 300,000 tonnes of gravel and excavation materials each year, removing an estimated 20,000 heavy goods vehicles from the roads annually.

By modernizing the locomotive fleet, the initiative seeks to maintain operational reliability and efficiency in this critical segment of the region's logistics infrastructure.

Broader strategy includes infrastructure and urban logistics

In addition to the locomotive purchase, the Council of State’s proposal includes 21.3 million francs for subsidies to support private companies in developing rail-road transhipment facilities. These facilities aim to improve the competitiveness of rail freight systems. Another 4.3 million francs is designated for planning and developing logistics sites, supporting urban logistics projects, and fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders.

The Stadler locomotives form a key part of the broader strategy to position rail as a viable and sustainable freight solution in the Vaud region. The Grand Council’s decision on the funding request will determine the timeline for these investments.