The European Parliament has approved a new regulation aimed at making more efficient use of railway tracks and increasing network capacity by approximately 4%. The document also seeks to improve the coordination of cross-border transport, which should simplify planning and enhance the reliability of passenger and freight services across the European Union.
One of the key changes will be a shift from annual national planning to a long-term, pan-European train timetable. To coordinate cross-border traffic and manage crisis situations, the European Network of Infrastructure Managers (ENIM) will be established, alongside the European Rail Platform (ERP) – an advisory body involving railway operators and users.
Furthermore, penalty mechanisms are being introduced for non-compliance with allocated routes, applicable to both infrastructure managers and railway undertakings. The first timetables under the new system are expected to take effect in December 2030, while specific provisions will be implemented in stages starting in 2028.