The Government in Lisbon approved a financing of around EUR 170 million for the procurement of 22 new regional trains to be operated by Comboios de Portugal National Company (CP). Moreover, an infrastructure investment plan worth EUR 2 billion was also announced.
The Portuguese Government said it was the first new rolling stock procurement in the past 20 years. The financing will also be supported through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), as well as through the Cohesion Fund for 2021-2027. The Portuguese state will ensure third of the total amount through the Environment Fund, with the money expected to be allocated in 2019.
The new trains will be put into operation on regional lines, but no sooner than 2023-2024.
Until then, Comboios de Portugal will provide regional transport services using the trains delivered by the Spanish national operator, RENFE, following a leasing contract worth EUR 10 million.
Minister Marques announced that the Railway Equipment Maintenance Company will hire around 100 people for the new trains that will be procured.
“12 bimodal multiple-units, capable to run on both electrified and non-electrified railways and 10 electric multiple-units will be bought”, said Pedro Marques, the Portuguese Minister for Planning and Infrastructure.
The Portuguese Government said the new measures will promote the use of public transport thus assisting the national objective of reducing polluting emissions.
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