The railway line is scheduled to be completed by 2025.Continue reading
Earlier, there were rumors of a delay in the completion of Line 150, the Hungarian section of the Budapest-Belgrade railway. However, recent developments suggest that it may soon be completed if all goes according to plan. This milestone would significantly reduce travel time between the Serbian and Hungarian capitals to just 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Világgazdaság reports that the announcement of an earlier completion date for the Hungarian section of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line comes from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. In an interview with the Chinese broadcaster China Global Television Network (CGTN) at the end of February, President Vučić provided detailed insights into the construction progress of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line.
Mr. Vučić emphasized the strong friendship between China and Serbia, highlighting the benefits of the free trade agreement signed last October.
He noted that Chinese companies are major export partners for Serbia, contributing significantly to infrastructure development, including the Budapest-Belgrade railway line.
The accelerated completion timeline represents a significant advancement. Initially projected for completion by summer 2026, recent progress suggests an earlier handover by the end of 2025. This progress underscores the substantial efforts made over the past six months.
The construction project, valued at around EUR 1.7B , is financed primarily by a fixed-rate Chinese loan, with the remaining funding provided by the Hungarian State. The renovation project, initiated with the laying of the foundation stone in October 2021, involves various stakeholders, including MÁV Plc. (Hungarian State Railways), the CRE consortium, and Chinese engineering and construction companies.
The significance of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line extends beyond passenger transport.
Once completed, the upgraded line will facilitate faster and more efficient cargo transportation, particularly between the port of Piraeus (Greece) and Asia.
This strategic investment aligns with the Single European Rail Network (TEN-T) and the X corridor, demonstrating its vital role in regional connectivity and economic development.
Critics have cited the long payback period for the project, but its strategic importance for Hungary and Serbia cannot be overstated. The Budapest-Belgrade railway line forms a crucial part of ongoing rail infrastructure development in the Western Balkans, offering a shorter transport corridor than the currently existing alternatives.
Ultimately, the Budapest-Belgrade megaproject represents a significant milestone in regional transportation and economic growth. Its completion will not only enhance freight transport capabilities but also strengthen ties between Europe and Asia.
Via vg.hu; Featured Image: Pixabay