The Paris-Orléans-Limoges-Toulouse line (POLT) connects the Île-de-France region to the South-West of France and Spain. This route is part of the backbone of the French railway system and is crucial for domestic, inter-regional and international traffic. Through the renewal and maintenance of railway equipment, construction of infrastructures and automation, SNCF Réseau is committed to improving the reliability of the POLT line by undertaking a series of projects until approximately 2026.
The 700 km of the POLT line will be modernised through several projects scheduled until 2026. Since 2004 and until 2016, SNCF Réseau (RFF prior to 2015) has been renewing and ensuring the long-term future of all railway equipment of this already highly effective line. The works primarily involve the total replacement of overhead lines and long sections of the railway tracks. The projects also include the implementation of Permanent Counterflow Installations which allow train traffic to travel on either track in the event of works or technical problems. Finally, several railway infrastructures and signalling systems will be replaced or modernised.
In 2014, Alstom introduced the Coradia Liner V200, the innovative main-line train which will run also on the Paris-Orléans-Limoges-Toulouse line, among others “Main lines”in France. The train is designed to renew the rolling stock on major European lines as well as to replace the Intercity rolling stock currently being used on French “Main lines”, Paris-Clermont-Ferrand or Paris-Caen-Cherbourg.
In addition to retaining Paris – Orléans – Limoges – Toulouse, Bordeaux – Toulouse – Marseille, and Paris – Clermont Ferrand routes as the future Intercité network, the Government will also retain responsibility for Nantes – Bordeaux, Nantes – Lyon and Toulouse – Hendaye. These latter three routes will all receive new rolling stock from 2017.
The Paris-Orléans-Limoges-Toulouse (POLT) line is a strategic North-South railway route. As it passes through many regions and serves the main towns along its passage, it provides a great number of connection points for travellers. It also provides a wide range of travel opportunities with TER and Intercity trains. With many marshalling yards and installation points along its way, the POLT line is an essential route for freight transport to the Île-de-France region.
SNCF Réseau is committed to improving the reliability of the POLT line for all travellers. As part of this programme, it is also planned to increase safety conditions along the route for cars, pedestrians and cyclists.
by Elena Ilie
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