Major step in Istria’s railway revamp as €55m deal signed

(Photo: HŽ Infrastruktura)

A milestone has been reached in the modernisation of Istria’s railway network as HŽ Infrastruktura signs a contract with construction company Strabag.

The deal, worth €55 million, will see the renovation of the railway section stretching from the Slovenian border through Buzet to Sveti Petar u Šumi.

One-Third of Istria’s Railway Overhaul Underway

The 50-kilometre section represents one-third of the overall plan to refurbish 144 kilometres of railway lines in Istria, Večernji list reported.

At the official signing, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Maritime Affairs, Transport, and Infrastructure, Oleg Butković, highlighted the importance of the project.

“This agreement is part of a major investment cycle exceeding €1.5 billion, covering railway renovations, infrastructure projects, and the acquisition of new trains. The majority of funding comes from EU funds, while some, including this project, are supported by loans from the European Investment Bank,” Butković stated.

Future Plans: Electrification and Better Connectivity

Beyond this project, two key studies are being developed for Istria’s railway system.

One focuses on electrifying the existing network, while the other examines linking Istria with Primorje-Gorski Kotar County through a new tunnel, enabling better connections to the Mediterranean Corridor and the rest of Croatia.

What the Project Includes

HŽ Infrastruktura’s President, Ivan Kršić, outlined the extensive work planned.

“We will completely renew the railway infrastructure, including tracks, sleepers, drainage systems, bridges, and safety systems. Additionally, 21 level crossings will be upgraded. Alongside this, we are developing a study for the modernisation and electrification of the entire line from the Slovenian border to Pula. The study for the Lupoglav to Raša section has already been completed,” Kršić explained.

(Photo: HŽ Infrastruktura)

The inclusion of Istria’s railway lines in the EU’s TEN-T network will open up further opportunities for European funding, ensuring continued progress in modernising rail transport across the region.

With all railway sections in Croatia currently undergoing some stage of development, Istria is set to benefit from enhanced connectivity and more efficient transport in the years ahead.