The aim of the study is to develop a common perspective for the Linz – Budweis – Prague axis as a possible high-performance route.
"A possible development of the Linz - Budweis - Prague axis is based on the existing upgrade programme for the Prague - Budweis section and the Austrian target network 2040. By taking a joint approach, the Budweis – Linz route can become a fully-fledged connection for Czech railways, not only to Austria, but also to Southern and Western Europe,"says Jiří Svoboda, Director General of Správa železnic.
The study will focus on an analysis of the axis's transport potential for passenger and freight traffic in a European, cross-border and regional context. This can be the basis for an updated cost-benefit analysis of a possible cross-border expansion of the line.
"With the signed working agreement, we are taking the next important step towards analysing the potential of the Linz - Budweis - Prague axis across borders together with our Czech colleagues," adds Judith Engel, CEO of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG.
This will provide the scientific basis for possible further steps. The first findings are expected by the end of 2025.
