Hitachi Rail supports modernization of Romanian railways
Technological advancement in digital signalling will include ETCS Level 2 and customized L90 electronic interlockings.
www.hitachirail.com
Hitachi Rail is supporting modernization of Romanian railways.
Hitachi Rail has announced the successful commissioning of Phase 1 of the modernization project on the Ghioroc–Barzava railway line in Romania. The ambitious initiative – carried out in collaboration with Webuild, FCC, and Salcef – marks a significant milestone in the advancement of Romania's rail infrastructure.
The project supports CFR, Romania's national railway operator, which runs both freight and passenger services along the route. By upgrading the line for higher speeds and enhanced automation, the project not only increases efficiency but simultaneously reduces the maintenance requirement by operational staff.
Launched in 2017 and scheduled for completion in December 2025, the project includes the installation and commissioning of seven new electronic interlockings (ESTW) along a 79 km stretch. In Phase 1, five interlockings – located in Ghioroc, Milova, Radna, Păuliș, and Bârzava Noua – have been successfully brought online. Future phases will implement ETCS Level 2 and complete the activation of the remaining interlockings.
Hitachi Rail is deploying a suite of advanced technologies, including customized L90 interlockings, LED signals, L700H point machines, track circuits, ETCS Level 2, advanced traffic management system integration, power supply systems, CCTV, PIS-PAS, IP/MPLS, GSM-R, telecommunications systems, balises, and modernized level crossings. These innovations are engineered to significantly improve travel time, operational reliability, and system maintainability.
"The project marks a major step forward in growing rail transport efficiency and safety, thanks to cutting-edge electronic centralization solutions developed by our R&D team. This success is a proof of the exceptional teamwork of Hitachi teams, and I sincerely thank everyone for their dedication and efforts," underlines Mihai Bizau, Bids and Projects Director, Hitachi Rail in Romania.
www.hitachirail.com
