Divača–Koper New Railway to Open for Tests Next Week

Why It Matters

The tests validate Slovenia’s pioneering slab‑track technology, ensuring safe, high‑speed freight service to a key Mediterranean gateway. Successful commissioning will boost rail’s modal share at Koper, enhancing supply‑chain resilience and regional competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

• Test runs begin 9 March, lasting three days
• Slab track RHEDA 2000 used for first long section
• Safety tests focus on derailment coefficient, lateral acceleration
• Full line opening slated for 31 March 2026
• Second parallel track to finish by 2030, boosting capacity

Pulse Analysis

The Divača‑Koper corridor has long been a bottleneck for Slovenia’s logistics network, linking the inland rail hub to the nation’s most important seaport on the Adriatic. By adopting the RHEDA 2000 slab‑track system, the project sidesteps traditional ballast maintenance, offering a smoother ride, higher speeds, and lower long‑term upkeep. This technological leap positions Slovenia among a handful of European railways experimenting with slab track on a multi‑kilometre scale, signaling a shift toward more resilient infrastructure in the region.

During the three‑day testing window, a specially equipped train will record derailment coefficients and lateral acceleration to certify the track’s dynamic behaviour under load. These metrics are critical for defining permissible axle loads, train speeds, and maintenance intervals. Early data suggests the slab track can sustain heavier freight consignments while minimizing vibration, a factor that directly influences the port’s handling efficiency and the reliability of time‑critical supply chains.

Looking ahead, the planned second track will transform the single‑track line into a double‑track artery capable of moving up to 36 million tonnes of cargo annually. Completion by 2030 will dovetail with the Port of Koper’s ambition to capture a larger share of Mediterranean trade, especially as rail freight already exceeds 50% of its modal mix. The expanded capacity is expected to attract new manufacturers, reduce road congestion, and reinforce Slovenia’s role as a strategic transit hub between Central Europe and the Mediterranean.