Hitachi Rail will provide technical support for the maintenance of signalling systems on the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad corridor, reinforcing one of Bulgaria’s most strategic rail routes.
Hitachi Rail will deliver technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD for the maintenance of signalling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor. Alokor is a partner in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). The partnership aims to support the long-term reliability of a corridor that plays a key role in connecting Europe with Asia.
The route forms part of the wider TEN-T network, serving as a strategic link between Central Europe and the Turkish border, and is essential for both international freight flows and regional passenger traffic.
Under the SLA, Hitachi Rail will oversee the supply and repair of spare parts for electronic interlockings, ETCS Level 1, Centralised Traffic Control and associated field elements over a two-year period. The agreement is designed to ensure predictable maintenance and reduce the risk of service-impacting failures.
According to the partners, the SLA will help stabilise operations on one of Bulgaria’s busiest routes, improving network performance for operators and passengers by reducing disruptions and optimising traffic management.
Hitachi Rail already has a strong footprint in Bulgaria. The company previously equipped around 200 kilometres of the Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines, including 17 electronic interlockings and ETCS Level 1 installation almost a decade ago. The new agreement focuses on maintaining that installed base and ensuring its long-term reliability.
“Hitachi Rail has extensive experience in supporting Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with advanced technology and reliable service. This agreement reflects our commitment to sustainability and long-term partnerships in European rail transport,” said Манфред Зекл, Head of Branch Bulgaria, Hitachi Rail Austria.
FACT BOX — SCOPE OF THE SLA
- Goal: Reduced failures, predictable maintenance, higher reliability
- Corridor: Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad (part of TEN-T)
- Duration: 2 years
- Systems: IXL, ETCS L1, CTC, field elements
- Partners: Hitachi Rail & Alokor EAD under NRIC SLA