Implementation of the ETCS System on the Malmbanan Ore Line: How Sweden is Modernizing Its Railways
12.09.2024
The Swedish Transport Administration, Trafikverket, has implemented the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 on a key section of the Malmbanan railway, which connects the ports of Luleå on the Baltic Sea and Narvik on the coast of the Norwegian Sea, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
This system was introduced on September 3, 2024, on the section between Gällivare and Kiruna.
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In the coming months, ETCS is expected to extend its coverage to Gällivare station. Full deployment of the system along the entire 473 km line is scheduled to be completed by 2029.
The Malmbanan line plays a strategic role in transporting iron ore from Swedish mines to sea ports.
It is characterized by heavy loads, making the implementation of modern safety and traffic management technologies particularly important.
The ETCS system will improve transportation efficiency, enhance traffic safety, and reduce the likelihood of delays.
Work on implementing ETCS on this heavy-duty line began back in 2019 as part of a collaboration with Bombardier Transportation, which later became part of Alstom.
The first stage of modernization was the introduction of microprocessor-based interlocking in 2020. This was an important step toward fully automating traffic management.
In March 2021, a contract was signed with Hitachi Rail to deploy ETCS on the northernmost section of the line, marking a significant milestone for the further development of the region’s transport infrastructure.
The implementation of ETCS on Malmbanan is a key part of a comprehensive program to modernize Sweden’s railway network.
The ETCS Level 2 train control system is an advanced technology used across Europe to enhance the safety and capacity of rail corridors.
It operates based on data exchange between trains and control centers, allowing for the regulation of train speeds and the prevention of accidents.
By 2029, with the completion of ETCS deployment along the entire line, Malmbanan will become one of the most technologically advanced railways in Europe.
Photo: Trafikverket
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