Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD for the maintenance of signalling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor. Alokor EAD is a partner and participant in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) signed with Bulgaria’s National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). Through this partnership, Hitachi Rail reinforces its commitment to ensuring the reliability of Bulgaria’s railway infrastructure.
Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail will manage the supply and repair of spare parts for most of the signalling systems, including electronic interlockings (IXL), ETCS Level 1, Centralised Traffic Control (CTC), and associated field elements over a two-year period.
The SLA ensures high reliability of the signalling infrastructure on two of Bulgaria’s key rail routes, helping to optimise train traffic for both operators and passengers. By reducing the risk of system failures, the partnership supports long-term network stability and more predictable maintenance schedules, contributing to fewer disruptions and improved service quality.
Hitachi Rail has an established presence in Bulgaria, having previously equipped the Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines – covering a total of around 200 kilometres – with 17 electronic interlockings and ETCS Level 1 technology almost a decade ago.
The new agreement focuses on maintaining this existing infrastructure, underscoring the strategic role of the corridor that connects Europe and Asia.
“Hitachi Rail has extensive experience in supporting Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with advanced technology and reliable service. This agreement reflects our commitment to sustainability and long-term partnerships in European rail transport,” said Manfred Zekl, Head of Branch Bulgaria, Hitachi Rail Austria.
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