Hitachi Rail signalling contract Ankara-Istanbul line

Hitachi Rail’s Spanish and Turkish businesses will modernise interlockings, the Traffic Control Centre and telecommunications, and fit ETCS Level 1 and 2, as part of efforts to separate high-speed traffic from other services. Hitachi Rail Spain and Hitachi Rail Turkey have signed a contract for the development, supply, installation and commissioning of signalling systems on the Ankara-Istanbul line at T26 and Bilecik depot. The works form part of the commitment by Turkish State Railways (TCDD), which Hitachi Rail describes as Turkey’s infrastructure administrator, to improve railway operations management and support the country’s economic and social development. Separating high-speed and other rail services With civil works now completed, Hitachi Rail says the project is a key element in separating high-speed traffic from other rail services. The company states that this will reduce journey times from the current 20 minutes to nine, while improving the capacity and availability of the railway network. Access to Bilecik depot will also enhance the operation and maintenance of the rolling stock serving the line, according to the company. Interlocking, control centre and ETCS scope The project includes modification of the existing interlockings and Traffic Control Centre, including trackside equipment, new turnouts and signals. Existing telecommunications equipment will also be expanded. The line will also be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 and Level 2 at both T26 and Bilecik depot. Hitachi Rail has been established in Turkey since 1987 and has worked with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, TCDD, leading construction companies and system integrators, delivering a series of contracts for railway systems. Hitachi Rail says the project strengthens its position as one of the leading players in the Turkish rail sector and reflects the confidence TCDD has placed in the company. It adds that the contract reaffirms its commitment to rail mobility and innovation in the country. Hitachi Rail also frames the contract as part of Turkey’s modernisation of its railway network, responding to national demand for fast, reliable and sustainable mobility.