| Work Detail |
Carinthia rail infrastructure modernisation and expansion, as well as the inauguration of Koralmbahn were the main topics discussed by the state’s Minister for Transport, Sebastian Schuschnig, and the CEO of ÖBB, Andreas Matthä, on March 13, 2025 on the occasion of a working meeting. There are plans for a long-distance stop in Kühnsdorf-Klopeiner See, the further development of the Villach-Fürnitz logistics centre, and implement measures to protect the population from railway noise. Due to the commissioning of the Koralmbahn in December 2025, the state of Carinthia intends to introduce the Kühnsdorf-Klopeiner See InterCity stop, a project which will be assessed by the ÖBB as it will be an important point for an ÖBB long-distance connection for Kühnsdorf as well as essential for the region as a tourist destination. “We are talking about an important component for balanced regional transport connections. The willingness of ÖBB to examine the integration of Kühnsdorf-Klopeiner See into the timetables is a concrete step in the right direction,” the Minister for Transport said. The Villach-Fürnitz logistics centre has been identified by the federal government programme as a priority and strategically important project for Carinthia. The Austrian Federal Railways has pledged to implement the investments already planned in the framework plan and, together with the State of Carinthia, to provide additional resources for the further development of the location. “I am convinced that the Villach-Fürnitz location has great potential due to its location on major transport routes, and that with the combined efforts of the State of Carinthia and ÖBB, we will succeed in generating a strong economic stimulus there,” Andreas Matthä said. “Villach-Fürnitz has the potential to become a logistics hub of European importance. The investments for Carinthia rail infrastructure will strengthen the attractiveness of the freight transport hub and thus Carinthia as a business location. This project is an important factor for the economic development of our state and must therefore be pursued with full force,” Minister Schuschnig added. A key concern for the state of Carinthia and ÖBB is protecting the population from freight rail noise along Lake Wörthersee and in the cities of Klagenfurt and Villach. During the working meeting, the clear shared goal of reducing rail noise along heavily frequented lines in close cooperation with the affected communities and achieving sustainable relief was emphasised. The new opportunities offered by the Koralm Railway and the general expansion and development of Carinthia rail infrastructure and transport were also discussed. EUR 650 million is the value of the second ÖBB investment envelope in Carinthia. This year, EUR 345 will be invested in the rail infrastructure of the region to deliver better services and access, while reducing travel time for both passengers and freight transport. ÖBB’s 2024 – 2029 framework plan envisages EUR 1.2 billion investment for rail projects in the state of Carinthia. The projects which will benefit from this investment cover the completion of the line from Graz to Klagenfurt (Koralmbahn), the expansion of regional rail connections in the region, the modernisation and electrification of Bleiburg loop which provides fast connection to the Koralmbahn and the Klagenfurt and Graz areas. The plan also includes the reconstruction of Arnoldstein, Villach Central Station, Rothenthurn stations, the Villach South logistics centre and the Combi Cargo Terminal Fürnitz, and the improvement of Ossiachersee railway line from St. Veit a.d. Glan to Villach. Other projects include electrification works Lavant Valley Railway from Wolfsberg station all the way to the new St. Paul im Lavanttal station, which is an important feeder line to the Koralm Railway. In December 2024, ÖBB celebrated the completion of construction of the 130 km track of the Koralmbahn which will significantly improve rail transport in southern Austria, reducing travel time to only 45 minutes between Graz and Klagenfurt. ÖBB has announced the completion of track construction work for the 130 km Koralmbahn route, being ready for the commissioning phase, requiring preparation and know-how with test drives and training. The modernisation of Villach Central Station, one of the largest and most important rail hubs in Austria, is ongoing in preparation for the commissioning of the Koralmbahn. The project includes the modernisation of the building as well of its infrastructure, the renovation and partially of station’s platforms, and the expansion of Bike & Ride facilities, it is expected that the project will be completed at the end of 2025. |
