SNCF Réseau continually launches new projects to modernise its infrastructure. In addition, the Central-Regional Government Project Contract for the Midi-Pyrénées region for 2015-2020 also calls for a network expansion programme. The result will be an upgraded network and more fluid rail travel for passengers.
These ongoing projects extend the life of the infrastructure, improve passenger comfort and safety, and guarantee dependable service. In the Midi-Pyrénées region, SNCF Réseau is working to modernise the mainline network and carry out new-build regional projects with strong potential. The stated goals of the Grand Network Modernisation Plan (GPMR) are to enhance network performance and reliability, increase capacity to handle more trains, improve regularity, and ensure complete safety.
For the Midi-Pyrénées region, the initial analyses and initiatives are focusing on the Toulouse railway hub and the region’s main lines. The aim is to identify needs and the necessary actions for the period 2015 to 2025.
One important aspect of traffic management modernisation will be the replacement of interlockings. For most of the interlockings in this region, SNCF Réseau aims to install remote control from a new Regional Signal Box (PGRA), the cornerstone of a new Centralised Traffic Control Centre (CCR).
The Central-Regional Government Project Contract (CPER) for 2015-2020 calls for new investments totalling EUR 376.10 million for railway modernisation in the Midi Pyrénées region. The main investment partners are the French State (EU 105.56 million), the Midi-Pyrénées Region (EUR141.57 million) and SNCF Réseau (EUR 60.62 million). Other financing parties, as metropolitan areas or local governments will be contributing a total of EUR 68.35 million.
The Toulouse-Matabiau station is the major railway hub of the Midi-Pyrénées region. Located at the intersection of the region’s main lines, this hub is a crucial component of the Grand Network Modernisation Plan. Given the projected growth in traffic over the years ahead, optimising the traffic management, adding new tracks and reinforcing the existing on-station tracks is critical. December 2016 will see the opening of a new on-station track at Toulouse-Matabiau.
Also, the entire line between Toulouse – Tarbes is being modernised between 2015 and 2020. This large-scale plan represents an investment of EUR 450 million funded jointly by SNCF Réseau (EUR 430 million) and the Region (EUR 20 million).
Alstom will supply 8 additional Régiolis (Coradia Polyvalent) to the Midi-Pyrénées region for a total of approximately EUR 46 million, following an initial order for 25 Régiolis placed by the region in 2009. The Régiolis, supplied here in their suburban version, are made up of four cars and have 50% more doors than their regional counterparts, facilitating passenger flow. Upon request by the Midi-Pyrénées region, these trains have been fitted with specific equipment such as passenger counting systems, dedicated storage space for bicycles and luggage, and front-panel displays showing the destinations. The first Régiolis of the Midi-Pyrénées region entered commercial service in 2014 on the lines that link Toulouse with Latour-de-Carol and Mazamet.
by Elena Ilie
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