Regions unite on investments in strained railway
Swedish regions are uniting to influence Trafikverket's multi-billion decision on railways. Previous investment decisions may be reviewed due to budget challenges. Trafikverket plans to spend a record sum on infrastructure in 2025.
Trafikverket has proposed spending 145 billion kronor in 2025, a record amount for maintenance and expansion of roads and railways. The focus is on addressing the most strained sections, where capacity shortages threaten train traffic. According to Aftonbladet, the agency wants to prioritize double tracks and maintenance to meet growing needs.
Regions such as Västra Götaland and Skåne have united in a common front ahead of the upcoming decision, reports Dagens Nyheter. They emphasize that heavily burdened railway lines must take precedence to avoid delays and capacity issues. 'We must ensure that investments go to the most critical parts', says a regional representative in the article.
At the same time, a debate article in Dagens Nyheter warns that previous investment decisions will be reviewed. With the large budget, there is a risk of reprioritization, where less urgent projects may be postponed. Experts point out that this could affect long-term plans, but no specific timeline for the review is given. The background is rising costs and political discussions on resource allocation.
The decision is expected later this year and involves both national and regional actors. The regions' collaboration aims to strengthen arguments for railway investments, while Trafikverket emphasizes sustainability in its plans.