Správa železnic (SZ) has commenced construction on the 17 km Kojetín – Přerov section, a crucial part of the Brno – Přerov high-speed line (HSL) that will connect South and Central Moravia. This development is a key step in upgrading the Czech rail network for faster and more frequent train services.
Project factsheet: Kojetín – Přerov rail section
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Length of section: 17 km
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Maximum train speed: 200 km/h (up from 100 km/h)
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Completion target: End of 2028
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Modernisation works: Full track doubling and ETCS signalling installation
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Stations upgraded: Kojetín, Chropyně, and Věžky halt
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Safety improvements: Removal of 14 level crossings
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Key structures: New 120-metre bridge over the Morava River, refurbishment of all bridges and culverts
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Total project cost: CZK 13.4 billion (EUR 547.5 million), including EUR 5.2 million EU co-financing
Modernisation and safety upgrades
Transport Minister Martin Kupka said, “We are confirming that our railway network is undergoing rapid development. Just days ago, passengers travelled at 200 km/h in regular service for the first time. Once completed, the Brno–Přerov HSL will offer the same speeds on this vital route.”
The project will modernise the existing single track, construct a second track, and install the European Train Control System (ETCS) for enhanced safety. New station buildings, platforms, and underpasses will be built in Kojetín and Chropyně, improving passenger access. Underpasses will provide step-free access, and additional parking spaces will be added.
Jiří Svoboda, CEO of Správa železnic, added, “Modern platforms and extended underpasses will improve conditions for passengers and local residents alike.”
In addition, the Věžky halt will be upgraded, and a new passing loop near Bochoř will allow efficient train switching. Bridges and culverts along the line will be refurbished, and a new bridge over the Morava River in Kojetín will span 120 metres.
Funding and wider network upgrades
The total cost of the Kojetín – Přerov section is CZK 13.4 billion (EUR 547.5 million). Construction is led by a consortium including Subterra, OHLA ŽS, Swietelsky Rail, Elektrizace železnic Praha, and Firesta-Fišer. ETCS installation is co-financed by the EU through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), with a grant of EUR 5.2 million. National funding comes from the State Transport Infrastructure Fund.
Construction on the neighbouring Nezamyslice–Kojetín section began in May and includes the 744-metre Němčice Tunnel. Once complete, the Brno – Přerov HSL will be double-tracked, level crossings removed, and trains will operate at speeds up to 200 km/h.
Václav Lebeda, European Commission spokesperson, stated, “This modernised line will not only provide faster connections, but EU investments in safety systems will make it significantly safer. It shows the tangible benefits of our EU membership.”
The Brno – Přerov HSL forms part of the Prague – Brno – Ostrava high-speed corridor, a major development for the Czech Republic’s rail infrastructure.
For readers interested in high-speed rail developments across Europe, Poland is also investing heavily in its fastest high-speed rail network, aiming for speeds of up to 350 km/h. The project will include a central airport and new lines connecting major cities like Warsaw, Łódź, and Poznań.
