Rail Baltica, the European standard gauge railway connecting Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia to the extensive European rail network, is one of the six major megaprojects currently underway in the European transport network (TEN-T). Other notable projects include the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel between Germany and Denmark, the Brenner Base Tunnel connecting Austria and Italy through the Alps, and the Lyon-Turin high-speed rail link.
These cross-border projects are a priority for the European Union’s (EU) transport infrastructure strategy to improve mobility, freight movement, and safety across Europe. Despite differences in geography and technology, they share the common goal of enhancing connectivity and efficiency within the European transport network.
Fehmarnbelt Tunnel
Construction of the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel began in 2020. Once completed, this 18-kilometer tunnel will be the longest underwater tunnel in the world, connecting Denmark and Germany. The tunnel will feature two lanes for vehicles in each direction and two railway tracks. The construction involves the assembly of 89 tunnel sections on land and their precise immersion in the sea. The project is expected to finish by 2029.
Brenner Base Tunnel
Construction of the Brenner Base Tunnel, which started in 2008, will connect Austria and Italy through the Brenner Pass in the Alps and will be the longest railway tunnel in the world at 64 kilometers. This project, involving around 230 kilometers of tunnels and shafts, aims to enhance connectivity between Northern and Southern Europe, providing an alternative to the heavily trafficked existing road and rail corridor. The new railway will reduce travel time between Munich and Verona to 2.5 hours.
Lyon-Turin Tunnel
Construction of the Lyon-Turin Tunnel began in 2013 and is planned to create a 65-kilometer rail connection between France and Italy, with 57.5 kilometers through the Alps. This project will replace the historic Fréjus Tunnel and significantly reduce freight transport and CO2 emissions in the Alpine region. The high-speed rail line is expected to be completed by 2032.
Rail Baltica – The Missing Link in European Transport Infrastructure
Rail Baltica is the largest railway project currently under construction in Europe, spanning three countries – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – and indirectly connecting Poland and Finland. The project faces significant challenges, including nearly 900 kilometers of new tracks and complex river and swamp crossings.
“We continuously learn from other European projects and integrate best practices to maximize economic benefits, enhance regional integration, improve military mobility, and achieve the EU’s long-term strategic goals. Our main focus now is on accelerating construction work,” said Marko Kivila, CEO and Chairman of the Management Board in RB Rail AS.
