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25 September 2025
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Sep 25, 2025Railly News
Nokia, the technology giant originating in Germany and Finland, announced the launch of the world's first commercial 5G rail network operating in the 1900 MHz frequency band, in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn, on September 15. This innovation provides a critical foundation for smart maintenance, rapid recovery after failure, and automated train operations.
New infrastructure, Nokia AirScale supported by radio equipment 5G Standalone It uses the core network and includes advanced features such as automatic error management, self-healing, and real-time monitoring for high availability. The system was launched at DB's digital railway test site in the Erzgebirge region of Germany.
Important steps in transition to FRMCS This step, which is among the latest developments, supports tests of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) conducted under Europe's FP2-MORANE-2 program. FRMCS is positioned as a 5G-based successor to the legacy GSM-R communications system, enabling instantaneous and secure communication between drivers and signaling systems. This not only ensures the safety of close-range train travel but also enables increased capacity.
Nokia is working on a similar transformation not only in Germany but also with ProRail in the Netherlands. The goal is to seamlessly transition to FRMCS by migrating the existing GSM-R core network to the cloud. This process aims to strengthen network security, reduce maintenance costs, and accelerate Europe's digital railway transformation.
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Morocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway PlanMorocco has launched a comprehensive railway initiative to meet the transportation needs of the future. King Mohammed VI inaugurated the railway. 20 billion dirhams (approximately 1,8 billion euros) The regional rail program, worth $1,000, aims to improve transportation in metropolitan and urban areas. This initiative is based on the country's previously commissioned 430 km Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed rail line Building on its success, the total aims to move Morocco towards a sustainable and integrated transport model. 96 billion dirhams One of the most important parts of the nationwide project worth .
At the heart of the project are three major transport networks that will connect multimodal station construction includes:
These stations are annually To 12 million passengers It will provide seamless integration between high-speed trains, regional lines and urban transportation vehicles, with the capacity to serve Casablanca-South Station, Casa-Port and Mohammed V Airport It will be a key point for the “Aero-Express” train that will connect the two cities.
The program also expands the suburban network. Ten new suburban train stations will be built and five existing ones will be renovated. In total, 92 km three lines in length, each Every 7,5 minutes It will serve 150.000 passengers daily. This expansion will improve the quality of life by easing urban traffic.
Morocco is supporting this massive infrastructure investment with South Korean manufacturers 48 automatic train sets from Hyundai Rotem For these trains, each with a capacity of 1.000 passengers and capable of reaching a speed of 160 km/h, 7 billion dirhams payment will be made. As an important step, Morocco a domestic railway industry A production facility will be established in the country in line with the goal of creating a domestic market and export potential in the medium term.
Financing of projects, National Office of Railways (ONCF) ve Casablanca-Settat Regional Council The completion of the projects aims to provide direct and indirect employment for thousands of people and reduce CO₂ emissions through public transportation solutions. This program goes beyond Casablanca, and extends to Morocco. Sustainable mobility and regional connectivity by 2030 reflects your vision.
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27 September 20252 min readMorocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway Plan
Railly News
27 September 2025
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Caf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro ContractsCAF has signed three contracts with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) to modernise and maintain rolling stock on Cairo Metro Lines 1 and 2. Valued at more than €450 million, the agreements strengthen the Spanish company’s presence in Egypt and consolidate its partnership with NAT and the Egyptian Ministry of Transport.
The projects will be financed through Spain’s Fund for the Internationalisation of Business (FIEM), managed by the State Secretariat for Trade. The FIEM promotes public financing for landmark international projects led by Spanish firms, supporting the export of advanced technology and services.
CAF will carry out the complete overhaul of 39 metro units operating on Line 2, extending their service life by 20 years. The works include:
Alongside modernisation, CAF will provide 10 years of full maintenance for the 39 Line 2 units, covering system resets and mechanical overhauls. The maintenance programme will run in parallel with the modernisation process.
In addition, CAF will also undertake the 10-year maintenance of 23 Line 1 units, currently being refurbished under a contract signed in 2021. This maintenance agreement will come into effect once the modernisation work is completed.
The new contracts build on CAF’s ongoing work for NAT, which includes the rehabilitation of Line 1 units and the refurbishment of the Kozzika maintenance depot. They highlight CAF’s ability to deliver integrated rail solutions that combine modernisation with long-term support services, enhancing urban mobility in major cities.
“By investing in advanced rolling stock modernisation and maintenance, CAF is helping improve the passenger experience and supporting the Egyptian government’s drive to expand and modernise its public transport network,” the company said.
Egypt is pursuing an ambitious programme to expand and improve its transport infrastructure, making it a key growth market for international railway suppliers. The support of FIEM funding has enabled Spanish companies to take part in these projects, promoting the competitiveness of national industries in passenger transport systems.
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26 September 20252 min readCaf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro Contracts
Railway Pro
26 September 2025
railway
$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In MoroccoThe construction of a modern and sustainable transportation network in Morocco continues unabated. King Mohammed VI, on Wednesday Casablanca metropolitan area total for MAD 20 billion (USD 2 billion) He presided over the launch of large-scale railway projects worth over $1 billion. This massive investment is a key part of the country's broader railway development programme of MAD 96 billion (US$9,6 billion). The projects are part of one of Africa's most ambitious railway initiatives, the foundation stone of which the King laid in April. 430-kilometer Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed train (LGV) is complementary to the line.
These new investments, Great Casablanca In addition to addressing future mobility needs, the program aligns with Morocco's national strategy to promote low-carbon and sustainable transport. The program encompasses a wide range of infrastructure improvements, from the construction of next-generation stations to the renewal of existing lines and the procurement of modern train sets.
The initiative aims to fundamentally transform Casablanca's railway infrastructure. Within the scope of the project, three new generation stationsTen additional metropolitan stations and five existing facilities will be rehabilitated. Additionally, 260 kilometers of new railway lines will be laid, and 50 engineering structures, two technical centers, and five maintenance workshops will be constructed. These comprehensive infrastructure projects will significantly increase transportation efficiency and capacity in the region.
The projects are being financed 70 percent by the National Railways Office (ONCF) and 30 percent by the Casablanca region. One of the most important components of the investment is MAD 700 million ($70 million) new construction started with a budget Casablanca-South stationThis station will serve both high-speed trains, regional and airport shuttles, with a capacity of 12 million passengers per year. It will also provide a strategic connection to other modes of transportation, such as trams, buses, and taxis. intermodal center will become.
As part of the program, two more major stations will be built. Hassan II Grand Stadium in Benslimane station MAD 450 million ($45 million) While it will be able to serve 12 million passengers annually with the financing, the new Mohammed V International Airport station is MAD 300 million ($30 million) It will have a passenger capacity of 5 million with a budget. These three new stations will also 24 in months The project is expected to be completed quickly, demonstrating the rapid pace of implementation. These stations will not only manage daily passenger flows but also provide critical infrastructure for major sporting and cultural events Morocco will host.
One of the most striking details of the projects is the supply of modern train sets. South Korean Hyundai Rotem Cooperation with Morocco for MAD 7 billion (USD 700 million) 48 modern train sets These trains, each capable of carrying over 1.000 passengers and reaching speeds of 160 km/h, will form the operational backbone of the new network. The agreement is more than just a purchase and sale transaction; Hyundai Rotem also commits to establishing a production facility in Morocco. This is a strategic move that will help establish a local rail ecosystem in Morocco and pave the way for potential exports in the medium term.
All these projects reflect King Mohammed VI's long-term vision for a modern, integrated, and sustainable railway network. The program aims not only to improve transportation efficiency and safety, but also to create jobs, stimulate urban development, and reduce carbon emissions. This revolutionary transformation, expected to be completed by 2030, will prepare Morocco for global events such as the 2030 FIFA World Cup. a continental leader in sustainable transportation will bring it to position.
Railly News
railway
26 September 20253 min read$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In Morocco
Railly News
26 September 2025
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The World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been LaunchedNokia, the technology giant originating in Germany and Finland, announced the launch of the world's first commercial 5G rail network operating in the 1900 MHz frequency band, in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn, on September 15. This innovation provides a critical foundation for smart maintenance, rapid recovery after failure, and automated train operations.
New infrastructure, Nokia AirScale supported by radio equipment 5G Standalone It uses the core network and includes advanced features such as automatic error management, self-healing, and real-time monitoring for high availability. The system was launched at DB's digital railway test site in the Erzgebirge region of Germany.
Important steps in transition to FRMCS This step, which is among the latest developments, supports tests of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) conducted under Europe's FP2-MORANE-2 program. FRMCS is positioned as a 5G-based successor to the legacy GSM-R communications system, enabling instantaneous and secure communication between drivers and signaling systems. This not only ensures the safety of close-range train travel but also enables increased capacity.
Nokia is working on a similar transformation not only in Germany but also with ProRail in the Netherlands. The goal is to seamlessly transition to FRMCS by migrating the existing GSM-R core network to the cloud. This process aims to strengthen network security, reduce maintenance costs, and accelerate Europe's digital railway transformation.
Railly News
railway
25 September 20252 min readThe World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been Launched
Railly News
25 September 2025
railway
Wabtec Inks $4.2B Locomotive Order For Kazakhstan'S National RailwayWabtec Corp
. yesterday announced a $4.2 billion agreement with
Kazakhstan Temir Zholy
(KTZ), the national railway of Kazakhstan, to deliver Evolution Series locomotives and provide long-term service support.
The multiyear order marks the largest locomotive agreement in Wabtec’s history, Wabtec officials said in a press release.
Wabtec will deliver 300 Evolution Series ES44Aci heavy-haul locomotive kits over the next decade. Ordered as part of KTZ’s ongoing rail expansion and fleet renewal, the new locomotives are designed to operate in the demanding weather conditions and mountainous terrain of Kazakhstan, as well as improve fuel efficiency and operate for longer periods between maintenance overhauls. The maintenance services agreements will cover the new units and KTZ’s existing railroad fleet over a 15-year period.
Kazakhstan represents Wabtec’s regional center of excellence, and this deal further enhances the partnership with KTZ strengthening the company’s presence and leadership as a rail technology partner and innovator in the market, Wabtec officials said.
“For over two decades, our partnership with KTZ has been critical in transforming Kazakhstan’s rail industry,” said Wabtec President and CEO Rafael Santana. “This historic agreement embodies KTZ’s visionary approach for the country’s rail network as the primary link between Europe and Asia. By delivering advanced locomotives and long-term service solutions, Wabtec is a proud partner in Kazakhstan’s progress, helping to unlock the region’s enormous potential and developing the engineering competencies in the country’s railway industry.”
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Progressive Rail Roading
railway
24 September 20252 min readWabtec Inks $4.2B Locomotive Order For Kazakhstan'S National Railway
Progressive Rail Roading
24 September 2025
railway
First Step Taken For Multi-Billion Dollar Metro Project In MeccaThe Royal Commission for the City of Mecca and the Holy Places (RCMC) has launched a long-planned initiative aimed at transforming the city's transportation infrastructure. Mecca metro network project The Commission has taken the first important step towards this mega project. The Commission has invited potential contractors to an early consultation meeting to share their interest and feedback on this massive project.
The RCMC announced that it is seeking to gauge market interest in the multi-billion-dollar metro network project and obtain detailed feedback on the proposed procurement approach from companies attending the event, to be held on September 21. This meeting will play a key role in the project's financial and operational planning.
Following the business announcement meeting on September 21, the RCMC will carefully consider questions and feedback from interested companies. The results of the early market participation will be shared with the public in early November. This process is a significant step toward providing a modern and sustainable solution to Mecca's transportation challenges.
Railly News
railway
16 September 20251 min readFirst Step Taken For Multi-Billion Dollar Metro Project In Mecca
Railly News
16 September 2025
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Multi-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway DepotA major milestone in the rollout of one of Britain’s newest train fleets has been reached following an £80 million investment into a key railway depot in Bletchley.
London Northwestern Railway (LNR) and Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, officially announced the completion of the redevelopment of Bletchley Traction Maintenance Depot (TMD) alongside local representatives and members of the rail industry at a special event on Friday 12 September.
The train operator carried out the works to enable the site to stable and maintain LNR’s new fleet of class 730/2 electric trains which entered service on routes to and from London Euston over the summer.
The fleet, which is made up of 36 five-carriage trains, brings an overall 20% uplift in capacity to the West Coast Main Line and will carry millions of passengers to and from the capital each year. They feature open gangways, charging points at every seat and intelligent air conditioning.
To run these modern trains, Bletchley Depot’s main shed has been extended with new modernised carriage servicing sidings, improved inspection facilities and new train lifting equipment. The overhead electrified lines have been replaced and a new overhead gantry now offers roof access to the full length of the train.
The improvements will benefit passengers in dozens of locations across the country, with the new fleet serving routes between Crewe and London and Northampton and London.
John Doughty, engineering director at London Northwestern Railway, said: “We are so pleased to celebrate the completion of these important and transformative upgrades. Having cutting edge equipment and more space in our sidings means our trains can be serviced and maintained more quickly, so we can offer a more reliable service for our passengers.”
Lord Peter Hendy, the Minister of State for Rail, said: “I’m delighted to see the transformation that has taken place at Bletchley depot, made possible by significant government support and a great collaborative effort between London Northwestern Railway and its delivery partners.
“The new trains entering service will provide a much better experience for passengers along the route, connecting millions of people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities. I look forward to seeing their smooth introduction being completed and enjoying a journey myself in the coming months.”
Bletchley TMD also maintains and stables the Class 150 fleet which runs on the Marston Vale line from Bletchley to Bedford, as well as the trains which will serve the East West Rail route from Oxford to Milton Keynes.
The upgrades were primarily funded by rolling stock company, Porterbrook, with additional support from the Department for Transport, and were carried out by Taylor Woodrow.
They come as part of a major £1billion investment into new trains and infrastructure by LNR and its sister company West Midlands Railway. Separate upgrade work is underway at the company’s depot in Tyseley in Birmingham.
Stefan Rose, chief investment officer at Porterbrook, said: “Working in partnership with London Northwestern Railway and the Department for Transport, these impressive upgrades highlight the important role that private finance can play in maintaining and enhancing rail infrastructure to deliver a better service for passengers.”
For more information on LNR’s investment programme, visit www.lnr.uk/newtrains.
Rail Business Daily
railway
16 September 20253 min readMulti-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway Depot
Rail Business Daily
16 September 2025
railway
$102 Million Train Set Purchase Tender For Kolkata MetroFocusing on railway infrastructure projects in India Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL)announced a major tender of $102 million for the Kolkata Metro. The tender, 10 train sets to be put into service for new metro lines ve Design, installation, testing and integration of CBTC (Communication Based Train Control) system covers.
RVNL will initiate the process by issuing a tender on October 29 and will complete it on November 4. This comprehensive tender will be CBTC integration for two new sections on Line 6 The tender will be open to joint ventures, but consortium participation will not be allowed. The project Completion within 30 months is targeted, which will require a rapid development process.
The Kolkata Metro currently consists of five lines and 58 stations. Despite a top speed of 100 km/h, the limited capacity of existing rolling stock is noteworthy. Currently, 59 trains from various manufacturers, including CRRC, ICF, BEML, Medha Servo Drives, Bharat Heavy Electricals, and Knorr-Bremse, are in service. These new acquisitions improving network reliability and expanding passenger capacity This tender stands out as a significant step in modernising Kolkata's transportation network.
Railly News
railway
13 September 20251 min read$102 Million Train Set Purchase Tender For Kolkata Metro
Railly News
13 September 2025
railway
Houston Metro'S $2 Billion 2026 Budget Sparks ControversyHouston Metro's $2026 billion budget for 2 has drawn criticism from community leaders, who argue that projects in the voter-approved MetroNext plan have been sidelined in favor of the safety- and service-focused MetroNow program.
In 2019, voters approved the 20-year MetroNext plan, which included light rail extensions and bus rapid transit. However, Metro officials implemented the MetroNow program, which focuses on cleaner stations, improved reliability, and additional police services. This has sparked widespread disappointment among advocates of the already approved projects.
Citizens voiced their dissatisfaction at public hearings, with critics describing MetroNow as a “watered-down” version of MetroNext. They claimed initiatives like light rail, bus lanes, and bike sharing were being ignored in favor of microtransit, roadworks, and safety improvements across the overall system.
The 2026 budget includes funding for 160 buses and 141 accessible vehicles, as well as $18,4 million in public transportation funding for the FIFA World Cup. Metro also budgeted for a $27 million police facility in downtown Houston.
Officials say MetroNow focuses on reliability, efficiency, and safety for the public. However, citing unfulfilled promises like sidewalks, accessibility improvements, and increased transportation infrastructure for future growth, citing nonprofits demanding that voted-in MetroNext projects be the primary focus.
Railly News
railway
12 September 20251 min readHouston Metro'S $2 Billion 2026 Budget Sparks Controversy
Railly News
12 September 2025
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Ministry Of Transport Builds Five New Railway Lines And Modernises 16,000 Km Of NetworkThe Kazakh Ministry of Transport has announced an infrastructure programme to increase the capacity of the 16,000 km railway network. Five new lines are under construction, including Dostyk – Moyinty with a connection to China, the Almaty bypass, Darbaza – Maktaaral, Moyinty – Kyzylzhar and Bakhta – Ayagoz. The first two are scheduled for completion in 2025, with the remainder to follow by 2026. By 2030, around 5,000 km will also be modernised and a further 11,000 km repaired. Transit volume reached 27.4 million t in 2024 and is expected to rise to 67 million t by 2029 and 100 million t by 2035. Seven border terminals are already in operation, two more are about to open, and five more are in the planning stage. The programme is being implemented by Kazakh state railway KTZ.
Trackopedia
railway
10 September 20251 min readMinistry Of Transport Builds Five New Railway Lines And Modernises 16,000 Km Of Network
Trackopedia
10 September 2025
railway
The Körfezray Metro Will Be 28,5 Kilometers LongMinister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that the project will radically change Kocaeli's transportation network. Körfezray Metro LineHe stated that the project, beyond being merely a transportation project, will also significantly contribute to the city's economic and socio-cultural development. He emphasized that the project will be constructed as a 28,5-kilometer double-track line running along the east-west axis of Kocaeli, serving the Körfez, Derince, İzmit, and Kartepe regions with a total of 18 stations.
Minister Uraloğlu stated that in the first years of the project, approximately 300 thousand passengers It is expected to serve, the design speed will be 80 kilometers per hour and this number will increase in the following years. It is expected to reach 500 thousand These figures show that Körfezray will significantly alleviate Kocaeli's transportation burden and accelerate urban mobility.
The completion of the Körfezray Metro Line aims to modernize Kocaeli's transportation infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion. This will improve the quality of daily life for Kocaeli residents and strengthen the city's logistical and economic potential. The project is described as a significant investment in Kocaeli's future and will contribute to the city's vision of becoming a "transportation capital."
Railly News
railway
08 September 20251 min readThe Körfezray Metro Will Be 28,5 Kilometers Long
Railly News
08 September 2025
railway
£342 Million Investment Announced For Electrification Of Fife And Borders RailwaysTransport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has today announced an investment of 342 million GBP into a series of 69 new electric trains and the line electrification of both the Fife and Borders railways.
The investment, which will be made by the Scottish Government and represents the initial phase of the electrification of Fife Circle services, was confirmed today in Parliament.
Further electrification work is currently also underway on the 116 million GBP Leven route, which was re-opened in 2024.
I am delighted to confirm that the next phase in Scotland’s programme to decarbonise the railway network will involve the electrification of sections of the Fife and Borders railways. This will support the deployment of battery-electric trains across these key routes.
This latest Scottish Government investment, in excess of £342 million, demonstrates our continuing commitment to making Scotland’s railway even greener, with greater capacity and reliability.
Today, on my journey to Fife, I was able to see the significant progress already being made to electrify the line south of the Forth Bridge and I am pleased works are now underway near Leven. I look forward to returning to Fife to see developments as this work progresses.
Tomorrow I will visit Galashiels to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Borders Rail Line opening.
Just as we are investing in our routes, so too are we committed to modernising our fleets, that is why I can also confirm that ScotRail has been authorised to initiate a procurement exercise for new battery-electric trains that will operate on the Borders Railway, Fife, and also for the replacement of some of those electric fleets currently operating in Glasgow.
We are rightly proud of this Scottish Government’s ongoing commitment to Scotland’s railway and the opportunities it can bring to communities and businesses across the nation as we continue to deliver for rail passengers.
The electrification of both the Borders and Fife routes aims to reduce rail emissions, as well as provide capacity and quality of service to drive and support modal shift, providing a more reliable rail service.
Work across the lines is expected to be completed by 2029, with a contract notice for the Suburban fleets set to be issued by ScotRail in Autumn 2025 and the new trains expected to arrive in 2031.
Electrifying the Fife and Borders lines is a significant step forward in our plans for a better and decarbonised railway for Scotland. We are delivering around 140km of electrification in Fife and the Borders, paving the way for the introduction of battery-electric trains on these routes which will provide more capacity and reliability and cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable journeys.
From the early planning stages through to construction, our teams have been working hard behind the scenes to deliver this major upgrade that will bring long-term benefits for passengers and communities. We look forward to this next phase as we continue to transform rail travel on these routes for the future.
Railway News
railway
06 September 20253 min read£342 Million Investment Announced For Electrification Of Fife And Borders Railways
Railway News
06 September 2025
railway