Wedoany.com Report-Nov 28, Starting January 2025, the Czech rail network will operate exclusively under ETCS across 622 kilometers of key corridors.

From January 2025, the Czech rail network will be fully equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) on 622km of track, including major corridors such as Česká Třebová-Olomouc-Dluhonice-Prosenice/Přerov and Břeclav-Bohumín. These sections are already practically ready. Final preparations for rolling stock and operators are underway to ensure smooth operation. Suppliers are also in the process of preparation for the delivery of spare parts for vehicles which are already in service.

Currently, more than 1,400 rolling stock are equipped with the ETCS system and 3,000 train drivers have been trained. These figures are expected to reach the required thresholds of 1,500 vehicles and 4,500 trained drivers by January.

"The introduction of exclusive ETCS operation will significantly enhance safety, modernize our rail system, and align it with European standards. These lines account for over 40% of the monthly railway transport performance in the Czech Republic. The implementation of ETCS will thus elevate the safety of a substantial portion of both passenger and freight trains on our network," said Transport Minister Martin Kupka.

Preparations for the introduction of ETCS are progressing at all levels, including staff training, vehicle upgrades and technical tests on the lines. Since August, 200 additional rolling stock have been equipped with the system, while driver training has increased by 1,100 participants over the same period. ETCS is already operational on busy lines such as Brno-Břeclav, where more than half of the trains are controlled by ETCS.

Looking ahead, the Czech rail network will see record investment in 2025. The Railway Administration will allocate CZK 62.7 billion for the renewal of lines and stations, almost CZK 1 billion more than this year. Of this, CZK 39.3 billion will be spent on investments including the modernisation of the Česká Třebová junction and the start of construction of the Brno-Přerov high-speed line, which will allow speeds of up to 200 km/h. Preparations for other high-speed lines will also be under way.