European Commission approves the financing of the purchase by ARF of 37 electric trains

Yesterday, the European Commission approved the allocation of over 52 million euros from the European Regional Development Fund, for the purchase by the Railway Reform Authority in our country of 37 electric trains for 13 national interregional routes.

"The new railway frames will have a positive impact on the entire railway network in Romania. Increasing the frequency and comfort of travel, as well as stimulating the use of trains, are important for territorial and social cohesion, facilitating everyone's access to jobs and public services. This improves the sustainability of transport, thus contributing to the green transition. Cohesion Policy is working together with the Romanian authorities to implement the objectives of the European Green Deal", said Elisa Ferreira, European Commissioner for Cohesion Policy and Reforms.

The introduction of these state-of-the-art electric trains will improve passenger connectivity and comfort and reduce emissions from transport activity.

With a capacity of at least 300 passengers per train, this investment will significantly improve the quality of rail services on the main electrified interregional rail corridors that connect Bucharest with regional centers of activity such as Arad, Cluj-Napoca, Constanţa, Braşov, Timişoara, Iaşi, Galaţi , Craiova, Petroşani and Suceava.

According to the internal regulation which is in line with the European one, the 37 purchased electric trains will be divided among the six passenger transport railway operators, among which is CFR Călători.

According to the Railway Reform Authority, the purchase contract for the 37 trains is ongoing, having been concluded between the public institution subordinate to the Ministry of Transport and Alstom Ferroviaria S.p.A. (with Alstom Transport S.A. as declared subcontractor).