- by croatiaweek
- April 18, 2026
- in
Croatia has taken a major step in modernising its rail network, signing a €278.8 million contract to upgrade a crucial section of the Zagreb–Rijeka railway line.
On 17 April 2026, HŽ Infrastruktura formalised the agreement with Spanish construction firm COMSA S.A. for the reconstruction of the existing track and the construction of a second line along the 44-kilometre stretch between Hrvatski Leskovac and Karlovac.
The project, co-financed by EU funds through the Competitiveness and Cohesion programme for 2021–2027, is expected to be completed within three years, by 2029.
The upgrade aims to significantly improve rail performance, with planned speeds of up to 160 km/h, alongside increased capacity and enhanced safety standards.
Works will include full reconstruction of the current track, construction of a new parallel line, electrification, and the replacement of signalling and telecommunications systems. Station buildings in Hrvatski Leskovac, Jastrebarsko and Karlovac will also be renovated.
Key infrastructure such as overpasses and underpasses has already been completed along the route, eliminating level crossings.
(Photo: HŽ Infrastruktura)
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butković described the project as one of the largest investments in Croatia’s railway infrastructure.
He highlighted its importance in aligning Croatia’s rail system with European interoperability standards and confirmed plans to invest nearly €6 billion in the sector over the next decade.
The upgraded section forms part of the planned lowland railway, a project of strategic national importance. It is expected to strengthen freight transport, support the development of the Port of Rijeka, and enhance Croatia’s role within trans-European transport corridors.
The project is also set to improve links between Croatia and Central Europe, particularly for freight transport. Increased efficiency and capacity will boost the competitiveness of the Port of Rijeka as a key logistics hub.
At the same time, suburban passenger services between Zagreb and Karlovac are expected to benefit from faster and more reliable connections.
COMSA, which has been active in Croatia for over a decade, described the project as a further step in strengthening its presence in the country. This will be the company’s third railway project in Croatia, reflecting ongoing cooperation and trust between partners.
Construction is expected to begin in summer 2026.