The Budapest Development Center (BFK) has ordered a comprehensive study of the construction of railway tunnels that could connect the Déli and Nyugati railway stations via a tunnel underground.
The goal is to decongest the current railway lines that run from the suburbs to Budapest by creating a connection that will run under the Danube. The question is whether or not this massive undertaking will be beneficial compared to the cost. Dávid Vitézy, CEO of the BFK, noted that there is no chance for improvement without a railway tunnel.
As for above-ground options, the MÁV state railways gained six double-decker trains. It is estimated that by the end of next year 34 more double-decker trains will be available. These trains can hold up to 600 people each. They will run on the Vác and Cegléd line to reduce traffic in the city.
Similarly to the update of trains on the MÁV, the HÉV railway lines will be renewed. The lines are expected to have 54 brand new trains in action by 2025. There are also plans to upgrade the tracks, stops, control system and passenger information system by 2027.
In addition to the new trains on the HÉV, the Csepel and Ráckeve lines will be lengthened underground to downtown, linking the lines to the metro 3 and 4. The segment under Soroksári Road will divert trains from the surface lines, providing easy access to the Danube embankment.