Rail Cargo Hungaria’s freight train dispatched from BorsodChem was the first train to travel along the newly commissioned infrastructure terminating in Novi Sad. Taking into account all circumstances and the technological challenges that still exist, RCH is prepared to undertake further transport assignments involving the Budapest–Belgrade route.
Future logistical advantages of the project
• Faster and more reliable freight transport to and from the Balkans.
• Increased capacity: thanks to the double tracks and the new infrastructure, line throughput will increase significantly.
• Relief for the Ferencváros freight hub: the new route allows freight trains arriving from the south to reach BILK directly, bypassing the busy Ferencváros junction.
• Restoration of electric traction between BILK and Ferencváros following the commissioning of the overhead contact line system.
The modernized line 150
• Total length: 350 km, of which 166 km is located in Hungary (Budapest–Kelebia section).
• Double-track and electrified.
• Maximum train length: 740 metres on the MÁV section, 700 metres in international traffic.
• Maximum speed: currently 100 km/h in the absence of a train control system; 40 km/h under conditions of restricted visibility.
Remaining challenges
Although the tracks and stations have been completed, the line can currently be used with significant restrictions only, and operation under the final traffic technology regime has yet to commence.
The Chinese-developed ETCS Level 2 train control system is expected to be commissioned during the spring. Capacity remains limited for the time being: only one freight train per direction may operate on the section at any given time until ETCS becomes operational. This typically results in a headway of approximately two hours per direction.
Additional advantage: electric traction restored to BILK
The strategic modernised railway line plays a key role not only in domestic rail freight transport but also has a significant impact on the operations of RCT-BILK. As a result of the project, freight trains arriving from the direction of Serbia can reach Soroksár-Terminál station directly, bypassing Ferencváros. This change significantly simplifies and accelerates logistics processes, while also reducing traffic at the frequently congested Ferencváros junction. Thanks to the new alignment, freight transport can become more predictable and more efficient.
The modernisation project extended beyond the commissioning of the track, also encompassing the full installation and entry into service of the overhead contact line. As a result, electric traction is once again available between Ferencváros and RCT-BILK, representing a significant step forward both from an environmental and an economic perspective. Electric operation enables faster, more reliable and more sustainable operations. The first train hauled by an electric locomotive arrived at RCT-BILK from Duisburg.
Over the past three years, when electric locomotives had to be substituted by diesel ones for every train at Ferencváros due to the absence of the overhead contact line, the staff of Rail Cargo Group — RCT-BILK, RCH, RCO and BU IM — addressed the challenges as a true team, demonstrating exemplary cooperation. No major congestion or disruption occurred despite the difficulties, which stands as a joint achievement of our colleagues.