Swiss Railways Secures Framework Agreement for ETCS Modernization
According to a recent publication by BLS, the regional railway operator in Switzerland manages a vast network that includes rail, bus, adn ferry services, along with 436 kilometers of railway infrastructure primarily focused on the Lötschberg corridor.
In an exciting development for Swiss railways,Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon-Bahn has entered into a important long-term agreement valued at €110 million with Siemens Mobility. This partnership aims to enhance the BLS network by implementing ETCS Level 2 train control technology.
The initial phase of this collaboration will see an upgrade of the existing ETCS equipment on the 17-kilometer stretch connecting Bern and Schwarzenburg from Level 1 to level 2. This upgrade will facilitate the removal of lineside signals between Bern Fischermätteli and Schwarzenburg, with plans for commissioning set for 2029.
This modernization effort is not without its challenges; it traverses both urban and rural landscapes while featuring several level crossings. To address these complexities, Siemens Mobility is introducing an innovative intelligent level crossing management system designed to minimize closure times and reduce disruptions for road users.
The anticipated benefits from this project are considerable. It promises fewer interlocking systems and easier maintenance while setting a precedent for future expansions of ETCS Level 2 across other routes.
The framework deal also opens doors for additional projects over the next ten years as part of BLS’s broader ERTMS implementation strategy.
“Siemens Mobility stands out as our ideal partner,” stated Daniel Pixley, Head of automation at BLS Netz AG when announcing this agreement on June 25. “This joint initiative lays down a solid foundation for further advancements in Switzerland’s regional rail sector following ERTMS concepts.”
“BLS Netz relies on our expertise to equip its Bern – Schwarzenburg line with cutting-edge ETCS Level 2 technology,” remarked Marc Ludwig, CEO of siemens mobility Rail Infrastructure.”We’re committed to addressing specific needs along this diverse route—from optimizing level crossing closure times to enhancing traffic management—while ensuring that future upgrades can be implemented efficiently.”
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