Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD, for the maintenance of signaling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor. Alokor EAD is the partner and participant in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) signed with the National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). With this partnership, Hitachi Rail strengthens its commitment to the reliability of Bulgaria’s railway infrastructure.

Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail will ensure the supply and repair of spare parts for the majority of the signaling scope, including electronic interlockings (IXL), ETCS Level 1, Centralized Traffic Control (CTC), and field elements over a two-year period.

The SLA guarantees high reliability of the signaling systems on two of Bulgaria’s most critical railway routes, and contributes to the optimization of train traffic for both, operators and passengers. By reducing the risk of critical failures, the SLA supports long-term network reliability – enabling predictable maintenance, fewer disruptions, and ultimately, consistent service quality.

Hitachi Rail has a strong track record in Bulgaria, having equipped the Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines – a total of approximately 200 kilometers – with 17 newly built electronic interlockings and the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 nearly a decade ago.

The current agreement focuses on maintaining the already installed base, further reinforcing the strategic importance of this corridor connecting Europe and Asia.

Manfred Zekl, Head of Branch Bulgaria, Hitachi Rail Austria, said: “Hitachi Rail has extensive experience in supporting Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with advanced technology and reliable service. This agreement reflects our commitment to sustainability and long-term partnerships in European rail transport.”

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