The shovel is in the ground! On Wednesday, June 25, the official kickoff was given for the upgrade of the Maaslijn. Together with representatives from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the provinces of Limburg, North Brabant, and Gelderland, client ProRail, and other involved parties, the signal was given to start the construction phase of this large-scale infrastructure project. After years of intensive preparations, the construction work on this important railway line between Nijmegen and Roermond is now truly beginning.
A future-proof Maaslijn
The Maaslijn is one of the busiest regional railway lines in the Netherlands, with approximately 22,000 passengers daily. The current infrastructure offers little room for delays or disruptions. With the upgrade, the line is being prepared for the future. We are executing this project on behalf of ProRail, with the goal of: a reliable timetable, more comfort for passengers, better transfer options, and more sustainable travel.
What do the works entail?
The upgrade consists of several components:
- Electrification of the entire route, including overhead lines and substations
- Construction of additional tracks in Cuijk, Boxmeer, Venray, and Reuver for better flow
- Speed increase through wider curves and high-speed switches in Mook, Cuijk, and Boxmeer
- Improvement of safety at more than 20 level crossings
Patrick Hoeflaken, project leader Maaslijn Upgrade: “The start of the construction phase marks an important moment for our team. With the Maaslijn project, we bring together our technical expertise, operational strength, and collaboration with partners in a project that truly makes a difference for the region and the traveler."
Symbolic moment
During the official ceremony, officials shared their vision and commitment to the project. Subsequently, the deputies from the three provinces, together with representatives from the ministry, ProRail, Arriva, and our CEO Niek Lentink, pressed the red button. Although we have already started and have placed about 120 foundations for the portals, this symbolically unveiled the first overhead line portal: a milestone in the realization of this project.
Niek Lentink, CEO Swietelsky Rail Benelux: “With the Maaslijn project, we definitively confirm the development of Swietelsky Rail Benelux from BBV contractor to all-round railway contractor. The project allows us to maximize our innovativeness and (international) capacity and to invest in sustainable technology for the railway of tomorrow with an eye on the environment.”
Phased execution
The works will be carried out in phases. We will start with the northern part between Nijmegen and Venlo, followed by the route to Roermond. By the end of 2027, the first electric train will run on the renewed Maaslijn.
Stay informed
We understand that the works may impact the surrounding area. Therefore, we ensure transparent communication through various channels. On our project page, you will find up-to-date information about the planning, progress, any disruptions, and special moments.
