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EU Unveils €546B Masterplan for 49,400km High-Speed Rail Network

The EU's ambitious Masterplan promises a greener, more connected Europe. With a 20-year timeline, it's set to transform the continent's transport landscape.

In this image in the middle there is a train. At the bottom there is platform and text. On the left...
In this image in the middle there is a train. At the bottom there is platform and text. On the left there is a building, roof, pillar and platform. At the top there are buildings, roof, cables and sky.

EU Unveils €546B Masterplan for 49,400km High-Speed Rail Network

The European Union (EU) is set to unveil a Masterplan for High Speed Connections on October 21. This ambitious project aims to connect major EU cities via a high-speed rail network spanning over 49,400 kilometres. The estimated cost is €546 billion.

The European Commission's Sustainable Transport and Tourism Committee is driving this initiative, prioritizing train travel for greener and more resilient transport. The EU, through its railway sector and associated bodies, has been working on this plan for several years. The goal is to create a connected European high-speed rail system, with trains traveling at speeds ranging from 250 km/h to 350 km/h.

Currently, Greece is not effectively serving domestic or cross-border rail transport, despite the need for connectivity. The network, once completed in 20 years, is expected to carry trains for long-distance journeys, with 50% of people in Europe traveling by high-speed train and 20% by conventional train. However, the lack of rail infrastructure in Europe is hindering necessary investments from both private and public sectors.

The EU's high-speed rail network aims to connect all major cities, promoting sustainable travel and boosting connectivity. With the Masterplan set to be presented later this month, the project's future is poised to gain significant momentum. Upon completion in 20 years, this network is expected to significantly impact Europe's transport landscape.

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