New train service to Haparanda launched; expert questions VR's monopoly

A new train service is set to launch on Monday, extending operations across the border to Haparanda, Sweden. The service will be operated by VR, the Finnish national railway company, as it has historically been for train services in Finland.

However, rail transport consultant Antero Alku has raised questions regarding the current structure of passenger rail services. He expresses concern about the reliance on a single company, VR, to manage all passenger train operations. Alku, who has decades of experience advocating for passenger trains and trams, finds this singular dependence noteworthy.

Despite the introduction of new routes, such as the one to Haparanda and a planned future connection to Rauma after a long hiatus, Alku remains cautious. His long-standing advocacy for public transport, particularly rail, has made him a keen observer of the industry's developments. The article notes that Alku has been a proponent of passenger trains and trams for many years.