RAIL Baltica has published the first version of its network statement, providing prospective railway operators with an initial overview of the technical, operational and access conditions for the future cross-border railway linking Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
The document has been prepared jointly by the three implementing bodies, and future infrastructure managers, Rail Baltic Estonia, Latvian project manager European Railway Lines (EDZL) and LTG Infra of Lithuania, in cooperation with Rail Baltica joint venture RB Rail. Developed in accordance with the RailNetEurope network statement framework, it represents the first consolidated reference document for prospective operators of the new railway, which is under construction across the three Baltic states.
RB Rail says publication is a significant step in Rail Baltica's evolution from a major infrastructure construction project towards becoming an operational railway. It is also intended to support engagement with future operators, freight forwarders and other market participants ahead of the line entering service.
RB Rail adds that Version 1 serves as an informational document and establishes the basis for a more comprehensive Network Statement that will be expanded in future editions. The document covers the entire Rail Baltica Global Project and brings together key information on infrastructure characteristics and access conditions within a single framework.
Julien Pellerin, Operation and Capacity Manager in the Rail Baltica department at LTG Infra, who coordinated the preparation of the document, says publication is "an open invitation to the railway market.”
“Version 1 of the Network Statement provides future operators and freight customers with a transparent and consistent basis for planning their engagement with Rail Baltica,” Pellerin says. “It also demonstrates the close cooperation between the three Baltic infrastructure managers in developing a unified railway system within the European rail framework. Future editions will continue to build on this foundation as we move closer to operations."
The formal Network Statement will be published later in accordance with the requirements of EU Directive 2012/34/EU. A separate Network Statement covering the Polish section of Rail Baltica will be issued by Polish infrastructure manager PKP PLK.
