Rail transport – a key element in the modernization of public transport

Deputy Prime Minister Grozdan Karadjov emphasized that the upcoming procedure for awarding passenger rail transport services is not a competition for subsidies, but for better service for passengers. He pointed out that since 2019, the rail market has been liberalized, but there are still no private operators transporting passengers. Bulgaria has committed under the Recovery and Resilience Plan to conduct a procedure for dividing the rail network into several regions to stimulate competition in the sector.

The approach to dividing the lots is regional and has been coordinated with the European Commission. Initially, there will be only one operator in these regions who will perform the same activities currently carried out by the state operator. The Deputy Prime Minister assured that the transition to the new operators will be smooth, with a sufficiently long mobilization period, and will not be felt by travelers.

Karadjov emphasized that in case of non-performance of the contracts, severe penalties are envisaged, including the revocation of licenses. Ticket and card prices will not change, and the ownership of the trains will remain with the state. No increase in the subsidy is envisaged with the new public service contract.

The Deputy Prime Minister stated that the Collective Labor Agreement of the employees currently working at BDZ will be valid for the entire duration of the public service contract. He stressed that as part of the European Union, Bulgaria must approach all workers with responsibility.

The project envisages dividing the rail network into three regions - Western with 75%, Northern with 14%, and Southern with 11%. The procedure is expected to start by the end of July, and between October 30 and December 31, the classification must be carried out, and the contracts signed. From January 1, 2026, an 11-month mobilization period is planned for the selected contractors, and from December 13, 2026, together with the new train timetable, they must start their work. The public service contract is for a period of 12 years.