Six months after its opening, the Koralmbahn line, which connects the cities of Graz and Klagenfurt, is proving to be much more than just a new high-speed rail line. In addition to significantly reducing travel times and expanding rail service—used daily by approximately 7,000 passengers—the project continues to evolve even after its inauguration.
Operators and the responsible authorities are maintaining a steady pace of work to ensure the long-term efficiency of the infrastructure and to minimize its environmental impact. Environmental protection, quality, and safety remain essential elements of the project.
A concrete example is the extensive reforestation program carried out along the route. This will continue in the coming years, and by 2028, approximately 145,000 trees will be planted in the state of Carinthia alone.
At the same time, other areas created as environmental compensation measures have already been transformed into valuable habitats for local flora and fauna. These include the Brenndorfer Bucht area and the section of the Lassnitz River that has been restored. Furthermore, the previously channelized Lavant River has since become a protected area included in the European Natura 2000 network.
The Koralmbahn is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Austria approved under environmental impact assessment legislation.
Ongoing Monitoring and Continuous Maintenance
Another important aspect of the project is the monitoring of noise and vibrations generated by train traffic. Measurement campaigns will continue through the end of the year at locations designated by the authorities. The data collected will form the basis for developing a standardized noise model, which will enable the effectiveness of protective measures to be verified and ensure that the interests of residents in areas traversed by the line are safeguarded.
At the same time, like all railway lines in Austria, the Koralmbahn has benefited from ongoing inspection and maintenance programs since its inception. Currently, work is underway on the railway superstructure in the Styria region, with traffic safety remaining the top priority.
Through ongoing investments in environmental protection, monitoring, and maintenance, the Koralmbahn is solidifying its status as a modern railway project, developed in harmony with the environment and adapted to the future demands of passenger transportation.
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