Estonian Railways (Eesti Raudtee) has launched a tender for the reconstruction and modernisation of the Palupera–Puka railway section, aiming to enhance both military and civilian transport infrastructure.
“On the Palupera–Puka railway section, the geometry of the existing railway must be improved to make it possible to increase the maximum speed of trains, and the depreciated reinforced concrete structure and ballast of the main track must be replaced, including at Palupera station with the station track switches.
In addition, the design and construction of culverts and other utility networks and facilities on the railway section is planned,” commented Imre Reipõld, Head of the Construction Service of AS Eesti Raudtee.
The reconstruction is required for both military and civilian purposes. In terms of defence logistics, the outdated railway superstructure will be replaced to facilitate the movement of military equipment between Estonia, the European Union, and NATO member states. The section plays a key role in supporting cross-border transport between the Tapa military base and Latvia.
From a civilian perspective, the project aligns with the national development plan “Estonia 2030+,” which seeks to improve the speed, frequency, and accessibility of passenger rail services. Under this plan, the maximum speed for passenger trains is to be increased to 160 km/h on the Tartu–Valga route.
Major construction works are scheduled for 2025–2026, with the tender open for bids until 12 May 2025.
The project is funded by the Estonian government through revenue from greenhouse gas emission allowance trading and co-financed by the European Union under the “EstMilMob” grant agreement.
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