Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP) has extended the suspension of train services on the Linha do Oeste between Sintra and Torres Vedras in the Lisbon district. This extension will last until nearly the end of the year. This is because of the ongoing upgrades on the railway line.
This was initially closed for four months, from April to August 2024. However, IP announced on Monday that the full reopening of traffic is now expected during the fourth quarter of 2024. Furthermore, they added that the extension is necessary to complete the upgrades.
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The upgrades include installing new tracks, electrical lines, and signaling systems. These improvements will enhance the overall travel experience and efficiency of the train services on the Linha do Oeste. The company working on the project said:
After work began on the tunnel [in Sapataria, in the municipality of Sobral de Monte Agraço], situations were detected, resulting from the unpredictability of its geological nature and which were not identifiable in the design phase, which required an extension of the suspension period, namely the significant increase in the volume of injections for the consolidation and stabilization of the tunnel.
The IP explained that there has been a significant increase in resources on-site and work being carried out around 20 hours a day. Still there are delays because of the highly complex work. The IP said that:
In order to guarantee the best conditions for carrying out the work, mitigating risks to the safety of workers and traffic, it is essential to completely cut off rail traffic on the section
Linha do Oeste Train: Project Details
The upgrade of the railway line began in July 2019 and was initially expected to take two years. The project, with an estimated cost of approximately 61.7 million euros, includes several key improvements. These include electrifying the line, enhancing station facilities, and making the system more accessible for passengers with limited mobility. Additionally, it involves safety upgrades, such as eliminating and automating level crossings and constructing underpasses.
The work was divided into two phases. The first involves the section from Mira Sintra-Meleças to Torres Vedras, while the second covers Torres Vedras to Caldas da Rainha. This will reduce travel times and increase train frequency from 16 to 48 daily services in both directions. Additionally, it will contribute to lower energy costs and emissions.
The work is already behind schedule. The company working on the project said:
After several delays already observed, the completion of the work is expected to slip from the end of this year to the beginning of 2025
While briefing on the work in progress, the IP said:
The development phase of engineering studies and projects is underway, followed by the environmental impact assessment and subsequently the launch of the contract tender
