Romanian Danube Railway Line to Close Five Years for Modernization

Romania's railway network is set for a significant transformation as the historic line between Drobeta Turnu Severin and Caransebeș is scheduled for a five-year closure beginning in 2027. This extensive modernization project will affect over 110 kilometers of track, impacting the crucial connection between the Banat and Oltenia regions.

The railway, with a history spanning over a century and a half, is renowned for its dramatic route. It winds along the Danube River, traverses the Cerna Gorge, and approaches the Banat mountains. Parts of the line follow ancient pathways, including a Roman imperial road, and are adorned with impressive railway engineering works from the 19th and 20th centuries.

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The period envisaged for the complete closure of traffic is February 2027 – February 2032, a period necessary for the execution of works on this section.

CFR SA, the national railway company, announced the planned closure from February 2027 to February 2032. This period is deemed necessary for the safe and efficient execution of modernization works on this technically and geographically complex section. The project is designated as being of national and European interest, forming part of the TEN-T network and the Rhine-Danube freight corridor.

The upgrade will bring the line up to European safety and performance standards. It includes the rehabilitation of 62 bridges and 259 culverts, along with several tunnels. Specific works on Lot 4, covering Drobeta Turnu Severin to Băile Herculane, will involve modernizing seven existing tunnels. The overall effort encompasses track modernization, electrification, signaling, telecommunications, the implementation of ERTMS level 2, station upgrades, and drainage system improvements, all aimed at enhancing interoperability.

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The measure concerns the current line Drobeta Turnu Severin – Caransebeș, a single electrified line, and is of a technical, planned nature. The total closure of this section is necessary for the execution of works in safety conditions, on a route with high complexity from a railway, technical, and geographical point of view.