Preparations for route selection begin
The Pyhrn axis is an important international north-south rail link that will be significantly expanded and improved over the coming decades. The centrepiece of this modernisation is the construction of the new Bosruck Tunnel. The Bosruck Tunnel project is still in its very early stages. Preparations for the route selection process will be implemented in 2025. Extensive investigations are necessary throughout the entire project region before concrete planning for the project can begin.
Schedule for route selection
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2025:
Preparation of route selection process (creation of planning basis)
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2026-2027:
Planning dialogue during the route selection process
Based on the route selection process, preparations for project approvals will then be started.
The next step will be to develop route options and then select the route. In preparation for the project's approval, local residents, politicians and businesses in the region will of course be involved in the route selection process and a participation process will be implemented. This very intensive phase will ultimately form the basis for the project's approval, which will also require an environmental impact assessment, among other things. An initial major information phase for the public is expected to take place in early 2026, with many more to follow. The route selection area is defined very broadly in order to be able to select the best possible variant in the selection process according to objective and comprehensible criteria.
The new Bosruck Tunnel
The construction of a new tunnel is necessary because the existing single-tube tunnel, which went into operation in 1906, no longer meets today's rail transport standards. In addition to its single-tube design, the main reason for the new construction is the steep gradient of the route, which incurs massive additional costs for railway operations. Furthermore, the old Bosruck Tunnel would require extensive and costly renovation in the 2040s without bringing about any major improvements for rail transport.
Construction project schedule (depending on the approval process, among other things)
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Construction to start after 2030
The new Bosruck Tunnel will make the important Pyhrn axis fit for the future as a connection to Germany and Italy as well as to the eastern Mediterranean. Shorter journey times, a significant increase in capacity and the construction of a flat railway line, which will significantly reduce freight transport costs, are the primary objectives. This will bring significant benefits to the Austrian economy and passengers and increase the attractiveness of environmentally friendly rail travel.
From planning to construction project
Once the project has successfully completed all the necessary approval procedures, preparations will begin for the construction of the twin-tube tunnel and the access routes to the tunnel portals. All major construction phases will be awarded through Europe-wide tenders until construction of this massive project can begin after 2030.