ÖBB Annual Report 2023

For a reliable future 22 T he new 2024 to 2029 framework plan provides for record investments totalling 21.1 billion euros. The funds will be used to expand and improve the rail infrastructure in order to create the conditions for the ÖBB Group’s major goal: doubling the efficiency of the railway system by 2040. An important focus here is on the “digitalisation of rail”, which delivers greater safety and efficiency in rail operations and therefore also makes an important contribution to the railways of tomorrow. Johann Pluy, member of the Management Board of ÖBB- Infrastruktur, comments: “An efficient rail infrastructure is crucial for achieving the climate targets in Austria. We place great reliance on digital initiatives in order to cope with the expected increase in traffic and the shift from road to rail. ETCS Level 2 and the future use of our drones are hugely important building blocks.” First passenger train passes through Koralm Tunnel In June 2023, after approx. 15 years of construction, the first passenger train passed through the Koralm Tunnel, the 33-kilometre-long centrepiece of the Koralm Railway. Full commissioning is planned for 2025. The journey time between Graz and Klagenfurt will then ÖBB is investing EUR 21.1 billion in the expansion and improvement of the rail infrastructure by 2029. Record investment in the railway of tomorrow INFRASTRUCTURE. The largest railway expansion programme in the history of the Republic of Austria is making the railway fit for the future. In 2023, important milestones have already been reached. MAKE WAY FOR RAIL. The Koralm railway THROUGH THE MOUNTAIN. The last breakthrough in the Semmering Base Tunnel