Rail transport is one of the most sustainable and safest forms of travel — protecting the environment while offering passengers a comfortable and reliable way to get around. Thanks to an EU-funded development, passengers traveling between Mezőzombor and Sátoraljaújhely can now enjoy an even faster and more modern journey, as the complete modernization and electrification of the railway line between the two towns has been completed.
The improvements are noticeable as soon as passengers arrive at the station: new 55-centimeter-high platforms have been built, making boarding easier and more convenient. The platform canopies, lighting, and passenger information systems have all been renewed. Modern signaling and safety systems ensure smooth and secure train operations, and a Central Traffic Control Center (KÖFI) has been established to remotely manage the entire line. The project also included the modernization of utilities crossing the railway, the reinforcement of engineering structures, partial interior renovations of station buildings, and the landscaping of surrounding areas.
Over the 46.3-kilometer section, a completely new overhead power line system has been installed along with the necessary energy infrastructure. The new Overhead Power Remote and Local Control system allows the overhead network to be monitored and operated remotely. The railway now supports speeds of up to 100 km/h, while the full modernization and electrification make train services quieter and more environmentally friendly throughout the region.
Special attention was given to ensuring reliable winter operations. Stations have been equipped with automated, remotely controlled switch-heating systems to keep services running smoothly even in cold weather. At Sátoraljaújhely station, an electric pre-heating and pre-cooling system ensures that stored trains remain warm in winter and avoid overheating in summer.
Between Sárospatak and Sátoraljaújhely, the track and its embankment were raised by one meter, reducing the risk of service interruptions caused by flooding of the Bodrog River.
The development of the Mezőzombor–Sátoraljaújhely railway line has opened new opportunities for economic and tourism growth in the Zemplén and Bodrogköz regions. With modern, sustainable rail transport, the area has become more accessible, and residents now benefit from a state-of-the-art, safe, and comfortable railway connection, improving quality of life across the region for years to come.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project IKOP-3.2.0-15-2016-00009 under the Integrated Transport Development Operational Programme.
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