Europe's leading railway managers, High Level Infrastructure Meeting (HLIM) in Vienna on 27 November 2024 came together within the scope of the meeting and discussed the resilience and financing needs of railways. ÖBB Infrastructure AG This meeting was hosted by Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) ve European Railway Infrastructure Managers (EIM) leaders also participated.
Among the main agenda items of the meeting: climate resilience, financing shortfalls, cyber security ve Sustainable growth strategies for the EU's rail network took place.
Resilience and Climate-Oriented Solutions in the European Rail Network
Recently, increasing throughout Europe climate-related disruptions such as floods and heavy rainfall, once again highlighted the need for resilience of railways. The following topics were discussed at the meeting to address these challenges:
- Climate Resilience: It was emphasized that the railway infrastructure must adapt to the extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change.
- Cyber security: It was stated that the digital security of the railway network should be increased against increasing threats.
- Innovation and CollaborationCollaboration between European Infrastructure Managers (IMs) was identified as a vital factor to generate innovative solutions to these challenges.
The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and its Financing Needs
One of the most important agenda items of the meeting was Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) were the sources of financing needed to complete the projects. TEN-T projects aim to connect European capitals and major cities with high-speed trains. However, these projects require funding at both EU and national levels to be completed.
Financing Highlights
- Completion of Critical Projects: It was emphasized that financial gaps must be closed in order to implement major projects such as TEN-T.
- United Efforts: It was stated that in addition to EU funds, national governments should also allocate resources to these projects.
- Investing in Resilience: CER Executive Director Alberto MazzolaHe said that while Europe's rail networks must be improved in terms of connectivity, they must also be made resilient to future challenges.
Digitalization and Sustainability: Europe's Rail Future
Rail leaders have highlighted the central role of digitalisation and innovation in modernising the EU’s rail network. The integration of new technologies into sustainable infrastructure projects is crucial to delivering both cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions.
Future Recommendations
- Coordinated Planning: Developing a harmonized approach to technology integration among EU countries.
- New technologies: Increasing the involvement of digitalization and innovation in infrastructure projects.
- Sharing Expertise: Developing joint projects by sharing best practices of European countries.
Joint Commitment to the European Rail Network
Meeting, commitment to building a high-performance, sustainable and safe rail network These efforts are critical not only for European businesses and citizens, but also for the long-term economic growth of the region.
A Shared Vision for the Future of European Rail
This meeting in Vienna reiterated Europe's determination to modernise its rail infrastructure, increase its resilience and close financing gaps.
To produce innovative solutions to the challenges of the modern age, such as climate change and digitalization. collaboration and innovation This meeting, where the themes are at the forefront, The vision to make Europe's rail network sustainable and future-proof stood out as a part of it.
