Croatia Secures 677 Million Euro Railway Agreement

Croatia Signs Landmark Contract for Rail Modernization

Hrvatska Infrastruktura signs a 677.07 million euro contract with India’s Afcons Infrastructure to renew and double-track the 83-kilometer Dugo Selo–Novska railway line. This contract signifies a major leap in Croatia’s efforts to modernize its railway infrastructure, ensuring smoother, more efficient transit across key corridors.

Strategic Improvements and Project Timeline

The project aims to overhaul four key segments: Dugo Selo–Ivić Grad, Ivić Grad–Popovača, Popovača–Kutina, and Kutina–Novska. It involves reconstructing stations, replacing over 30 level crossings with bridges, and installing state-of-the-art traffic control and signaling systems. The project plans to commence in early 2027 and wrap up within 5 years and 10 months, emphasizing efficient delivery.

Impact on European Rail Corridors and Capacity

This upgrade will transform the Dugo Selo–Novska line from a single to double track, playing a crucial role in enhancing the RH1 corridor, a vital route connecting Europe’s northern and southern regions. By increasing capacity and reducing congestion, the project supports Croatia’s integration into the broader European high-speed rail network and aligns with EU’s transport sustainability goals.

Funding and Contractual Challenges Answered

Initially estimated at 620 million euros, the bid surpassed expectations, reaching over 677 million euros. Despite this, the Croatian government approved the contract, citing readiness to invest in resilient infrastructure. The process faced and overcame legal challenges, including objections from Cengiz Inşaat, which were ultimately dismissed by the national authorities and the European Commission. This decisive action confirmed Afcons Infrastructure’s selection as the reliable partner for this transformative initiative.