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Modernization of the Sofia Railway Node – A New Level of Transport Connectivity

The modernization of the railway section between Sofia Central Station and Voluyak Station is part of the comprehensive development of the Sofia railway node. It aims to increase the capacity, safety, and efficiency of rail transport. The project is part of the European „Orient/East-Med Corridor“ (TEN-T) and is co-financed under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).

Key Project Parameters

  • Title: “Design and Construction for the Modernization of the Track Layout at Sofia Central Station and the Railway Section Sofia Central Station – Voluyak” under Project 2014‑BG‑TMC‑0133‑W – “Development of the Sofia Railway Node”

  • Contracting Authority: National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC – Bulgaria)

  • Contractor: DZZD “ZGOP Bulgaria” – a joint venture between Todini Bulgaria EOOD and ZGOP AD

  • Contract Value: BGN 199,850,060.56 (excluding VAT)

  • Designer: Eurotransproject Ltd.

  • Funding: Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and national co-financing

Scope of Activities

The project covers the railway section between Sofia Central Station and Voluyak Station (approx. 10 km in length) and includes:

  • Modernization and New Construction of Railway Infrastructure:

    • Full reconstruction of the two existing tracks and construction of a third additional electrified track

    • New turnouts, rails, ballast beds, and a drainage system

  • Overhead Contact Line and Power Supply:

    • Complete replacement of the existing overhead contact line

    • New power distribution facilities and power supply systems

  • Signaling and Telecommunications:

    • Modern train traffic control systems

    • New cable routes, signal boxes, and communications systems

  • Civil and Support Infrastructure:

    • Modernization of Voluyak and Sofia stations

    • Construction of a new Obelya station with six tracks and a direct metro connection

    • Rehabilitation of the Nadежда and Vrabnitsa stops

    • New pedestrian underpasses, access ramps, and platforms for persons with reduced mobility

    • Parking lots, landscaping, and noise protection structures

Project Objectives

  • Increase train speed and capacity within the capital

  • Improve intermodal connectivity between rail, metro, and road transport

  • Ensure barrier-free access for all citizens

  • Enhance safety and reliability of railway operations

  • Reduce urban noise and harmful emissions

As of mid-2025, the project is in an active phase of implementation. A significant portion of the tracks has been constructed, with ongoing installation of the overhead contact line and signaling systems. Work is progressing on the new Obelya station and the modernization of the existing stations along the route.

Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly reduce travel times, improve integration with urban transport, and raise the quality of passenger service. The modernization will also support the growth of freight rail services and establish Sofia as a key logistics hub in the region.