INFRASTRUCTURE Portugal (IP) has announced the completion of the major upgrade of the Beira Alta Line, running for 190km from Pampilhosa on the Lisbon - Porto main line to Vilar Formoso on the Spanish border.
The last section of the upgrade to be completed was between Pampilhosa and Mangualde, where Portuguese Trains (CP) resumed passenger operations on September 28.
The upgrade has included work to reinforce embankments and improve drainage, as well as track renewals throughout and the construction of new alignments to raise the maximum speed. Passing loops for 750m-long freight trains have been installed at 10 locations and all level crossings have been removed, while stations have been refurbished.
The Beira Alta Line has been electrified at 25kV 50Hz ac, and resignalled with ETCS Level 2 based on GSM-R for radio communications.
The project has also included construction of a new 3.2km spur at Mealhada providing a direct north-to-east connection between the Lisbon - Porto main line and the Beira Alta Line. This will enable freight trains from the ports of Aveiro and Leixões to reach the Beira Alta Line without reversing in Pampilhosa, and has involved the construction of a new 1.2km viaduct and an 820m passing loop.
“The Beira Alta Line is a strategic corridor connecting the interior and major urban centres, as well as being essential for rail integration with Spain and Europe,” IP says.
“With this modernisation, Portugal now has more modern, safe, and sustainable infrastructure, capable of meeting the needs of passengers and exporters.”
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