The Bulgarian Ministry of Transport has chosen a consortium headed by SYSTRA and consisting of Getinsa (Spain), Sudop (Czech Republic), El Trans (Bulgaria), and Vector Bul (Bulgaria) to provide technical assistance for the project to upgrade the line between Mezdra and Gorna Oryahovitsa.
The contract was signed on 19 September in Sofia, in the presence of the Bulgarian Minister of Transport Mr Petar Mutafchiev.
The 206 kilometres of dual track form part of the Sofia – Varna line linking the two major north-south routes which cross Bulgaria (European corridors IV and IX). Three sections have already been upgraded with financing from the World Bank. The present contract covers the last two sections from Kunino to Yasen (68 km) and from Pleven to Butovo (55 km). The consortium is to carry out a diagnostic study of the line, prepare the operating plan, draw up a schedule for the refurbishment works - which include replacing the whole track and removing 11 level crossings - and prepare technical documentation and tender documents. The study is due to last 16 months.
This latest success strengthens SYSTRA’s position in Bulgaria where, since 2006, we have been involved in the reconstruction and electrification of the Plovdiv-Svilengrad line.
