Test runs for the Halkalı-Kapıkule High-Speed Train Project’s first phase are set to begin soon, according to an announcement by Edirne Governor Yunus Sezer. The project’s Çerkezköy-Kapıkule section, spanning 153 kilometers, has achieved 92% physical completion in infrastructure, superstructure, and rail system works. Governor Sezer noted that superstructure works in Edirne are progressing rapidly, with trial runs expected to start in the near future. Launched in June 2019, the project will connect Edirne to Istanbul with a modern high-speed rail network, reducing travel time between Halkalı and Kapıkule to 1 hour and 30 minutes for passenger trains, down from the current 4 hours, and to 3.5 hours for freight trains, down from 8 hours 30 minutes.
Covering a total distance of 229 kilometers, the railway will feature dual tracks, electrification, and advanced signaling systems, enabling speeds of up to 200 km/h for both passenger and freight transportation. Upon completion, the Halkalı-Kapıkule High-Speed Train Project will form a vital link in the Silk Railway corridor, enhancing Türkiye’s connection to Europe for high-standard rail transportation. The project is divided into three phases: the nearly complete 153-kilometer Kapıkule-Çerkezköy section, the 67-kilometer Çerkezköy-Ispartakule section, and the 8.4-kilometer Ispartakule-Halkalı section. Governor Sezer also confirmed that work in Edirne’s city center is nearing completion. With test runs about to commence, the Halkalı-Kapıkule High-Speed Train Project is poised to play a key role in Türkiye’s transportation and logistics future.
Source: TRT Haber/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök
