Rio de Janeiro Unveils Bold Metro Expansion Plans

Rio de Janeiro Pushes Forward with Metro Expansion Plans. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Rio de Janeiro launches its 22km metro Line 3 project now. Officials target a construction tender before this year concludes.

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Authorities revive discussions for Line 3, linking Rio with Niterói and São Gonçalo. This plan, debated for over 50 years, now gains momentum.

A key obstacle emerges with an undersea tunnel beneath Guanabara Bay for Niterói. Experts estimate this challenging section drives costs beyond R$20bn ($3.4bn).

Transport Secretary Washington Reis, on February 18, outlines a new financing strategy. He predicts construction takes six to seven years to fully complete.

The 2031 Pan American Games spark renewed interest in this metro expansion. However, the government admits the line won’t finish by the event’s start.

Separately, officials plan a Line 2/Green extension tender later this year too. This includes a new Praça XV station costing around R$6bn.

The National Bank for Economic and Social Development funds this Line 2 project. So, financial backing strengthens the state’s urban mobility goals.

Rio de Janeiro Shifts Suburban Rail Operations

The state expects to overhaul Rio’s suburban rail network as SuperVia exits. Financial struggles since Covid force the operator to step down soon.

Last year, SuperVia and the state sign a deal for a smooth transition. A new operator steps in to manage the commuter rail services.

In April, state officials travel to China to secure 30 new trains. These purchases aim to boost Rio’s commuter rail network reliability.

SuperVia removes trains from service over recent years due to funding shortages. Consequently, reduced frequencies frustrate passengers across the suburban rail system.

Rio de Janeiro Aims for Transport Transformation

The metro and rail upgrades promise better transport for the growing population. Yet, timelines and costs challenge the state’s bold infrastructure vision.

Officials prioritize these projects to enhance connectivity across Rio and nearby cities. And, they hope improved transit draws more visitors and economic growth.

Construction delays could hinder progress, but the government pushes forward confidently. Because of this, the city’s transport future looks brighter than ever before.

The state balances ambitious plans with practical steps to meet residents’ needs. Thus, Rio de Janeiro strides toward a more connected urban landscape.

Source, photo: www.railjournal.com

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