The European Union aims to improve the transport of troops and equipment. The reason is the increasing military threat, particularly along the eastern borders. The Zeeland sea port is a location where military equipment regularly enters Europe.
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is also providing about 100 million euros for facilities enabling operations with 740-meter-long freight trains. Extended holding tracks will be constructed at five additional locations: Rotterdam-Noord, Lage Zwaluwe, Waalhaven Zuid, and near Roosendaal station. This will bring the operation of 740-meter-long commercial freight trains within reach. The market has been ready for this for some time, but the railway infrastructure has not yet been.
Starting in 2030, an EU obligation will require the capability to operate longer trains on a number of key routes and port sites. A 740-meter freight train replaces 56 trucks.
Construction for the longer trains will be coordinated with other already planned works, saving both time and taxpayers’ money. Additionally, the launch of several exploratory studies in the Rotterdam port area was announced, aiming to adapt the Botlek yard for increased freight transport. This is needed to enable longer freight trains to run to and from the Haven Moerdijk port.