Serbia’s 2025 Budget Law introduces a groundbreaking Green Budget annex, allocating €1 billion for sustainable projects. EUR 528.4 million earmarked for railways highlights the focus on eco-friendly infrastructure. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The FLIRT electrical multiple unit for Serbian Railways (Srbija Voz)

Key Investments in Railway Development

Railway infrastructure receives RSD 61.8 billion (€528.4 million) for upgrades and new projects, including Belgrade’s proposed subway. These initiatives aim to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance energy efficiency.

Investing €528.4 million in railways supports sustainable transit, lowering emissions compared to road transport. Projects like the Hungarian-Serbian railway emphasize Serbia’s commitment to climate goals.

In a groundbreaking move, Serbia’s 2025 Budget Law introduces the country’s first Green Budget annex, outlining 64 environmentally-focused projects. This initiative includes efforts by the ministries of environmental protection, agriculture, construction, and energy, with over half of the funds allocated to railway development.

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The Green Budget allocates RSD 118.5 billion (€1 billion) for these projects, which aim to advance environmental goals. The National Assembly’s approval marks a significant step in prioritizing sustainability within national planning.

The Ministry of Finance highlighted that the Green Budget annex exclusively focuses on projects enhancing environmental protection. These provisions align with Serbia’s amended Law on the Budget System, ensuring that green initiatives are a mandatory part of fiscal planning.

Environmental Benefits of Railway Expansion

Four ministries have labeled their programs and projects as green, showcasing Serbia’s commitment to environmentally conscious development. This labeling system ensures effective resource allocation and supports initiatives targeting energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction.

The annex emphasizes projects that improve environmental conditions, enhance energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy sources. Sustainable water and waste management also remain key priorities, reflecting the government’s broader vision for ecological protection.

Railway infrastructure receives the largest funding share, with RSD 61.8 billion (€528.4 million) dedicated to construction and upgrades. These investments include plans for a new subway system in Belgrade and several railway projects aimed at mitigating climate change.

Enhanced railway systems aim to reduce CO2 emissions and increase energy efficiency by offering sustainable alternatives to road transportation. The government’s commitment to green infrastructure underlines the importance of railways in combating climate change.

The Hungarian-Serbian railway project is among the most significant, with an allocation of RSD 18 billion (€153.9 million). Another RSD 18 billion is earmarked for a railway connecting the Zemun Polje district to a proposed national stadium.

Additional funding supports critical projects such as the Niš-Dimitrovgrad railway, allocated RSD 13 billion (€111.1 million). The Belgrade urban subway and railway network receive RSD 11.5 billion (€98.3 million), underscoring the importance of modern urban transit systems.

Environmental infrastructure projects include RSD 10 billion (€85.5 million) for sewerage systems and waste disposal improvements. Flood protection initiatives secure RSD 7.2 billion (€61.6 million), addressing climate resilience challenges.

The Green Budget also dedicates RSD 5 billion (€42.7 million) to a central sewerage system for Belgrade. These investments aim to enhance living conditions and ensure sustainable urban development.

By prioritizing green projects, Serbia demonstrates a clear commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. This comprehensive strategy represents a milestone in national efforts to combat climate change and improve citizens’ quality of life.

Transitioning to a greener economy, Serbia’s Green Budget lays the foundation for sustainable development while addressing urgent ecological challenges. With these investments, the country sets a promising example of integrating environmental priorities into economic planning.

Source: balkangreenenergynews.com

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