Quieter routes and legislative changes from 2025
From December 8, 2024, important changes in the operation of railway infrastructure in Slovakia will come into effect. These changes reflect European legislation, particularly Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1304/2014, which introduces rules for so-called "quieter routes." This article focuses on the key points of these changes, their impact on operators, and the obligations arising from the new wording of Act No. 513/2009 Coll.
What are quieter routes?
A quieter route is a section of railway infrastructure with a minimum length of 20 km, where the number of freight trains operating at night exceeds 12 per day. These routes were designed based on statistics from 2015–2017 and were subsequently updated in 2021–2023.
From December 15, 2024, a new list of quieter routes will apply:
- Košice – Varín
- Žilina – Čadca border station
- Palárikovo – Galanta
- Bratislava main station – Kúty border station
Infrastructure managers are required to register quieter routes in the RINF system (Register of Infrastructure Data).
Legislative changes from January 1, 2025
The new wording of Act No. 513/2009 Coll. emphasizes:
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Technical specifications:
- All designated technical devices must be certified and comply with safety requirements.
- The operation of non-quiet wagons on quieter routes will be restricted (e.g., wagons with cast iron brake blocks).
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Rights and obligations of operators:
- Operators are required to ensure track perimeter protection and maintenance of technical equipment.
- Each deviation may be subject to audit and regular inspections.
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Environmental aspect:
- The goal of the changes is to reduce noise pollution and improve environmental protection.
How to prepare for quieter routes?
Registration in the RINF system: Follow these steps:
- Select the "Section of Line" section and mark the country.
- In the "Infrastructure subsystem" tree, select "Belonging to a quieter route" and set the value to True.
- View results in table or map format.
Adapting wagons: Operators must ensure the technical suitability of wagons operating on quieter routes. The most important changes include the installation of composite brake blocks and compliance with prescribed parameters.
Conclusion
The implementation of quieter routes and legislative changes is an important step towards greener and safer railway transport. Operators should use this time to adapt to the new requirements and ensure compliance with all standards.
For more information, visit RINF or contact the relevant authorities.
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