en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing announced that Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP) has signed two contracts totaling over €200 million for the modernization of the Northern Line (Linha do Norte) and the Minho Line (Linha do Minho).
One contract involves the comprehensive renovation of the Ovar–Válega–Espinho section of the Northern Line, with an investment of €76 million. The other contract covers the elimination of 11 level crossings between Nine and Barroselas stations on the Minho Line, with a budget of approximately €25 million.
The scope of work on the Northern Line is extensive, including the complete replacement of the track superstructure, improvement of accessibility at stations and stops, reconfiguration of the Ovar and Esmoriz stations, construction of sidings for freight trains, and the construction of new road and pedestrian grade-separated crossings while simultaneously eliminating existing level crossings. The government noted that these works will enhance passenger comfort, reduce noise and carbon dioxide emissions, improve safety, and promote sustainable mobility. This project is part of the modernization of the Ovar–Espinho section, which has a total estimated investment of €160 million.
On the Minho Line, the works eliminated 11 level crossings by constructing grade-separated alternatives and modifying the local road network. This is the first phase of a total investment of €40 million, aiming to eliminate all level crossings on the Nine–Viana do Castelo section. IP's railway safety enhancement plan targets the elimination of 155 level crossings nationwide and the automation of another 79, to improve safety and access conditions, reduce operating costs, and enhance the railway network's resilience to climate change uncertainties.
Both projects are included in the National Investment Plan 2030 (PNI 2030). Minister of Infrastructure and Housing Miguel Pinto Luz stated in a declaration that this initiative aims to create a more modern, efficient, and capable railway network to meet mobility demands and prepare for strategic investments.
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