Albania's railway system is undergoing a historic transformation with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU). The bustling construction site in Durres marks the rebirth of the 34 km railway line between Durres and Tirana, a project that promises to reduce travel time between the two largest cities to just 20 minutes.

This project marks a significant leap forward for Albania, breaking a 30-year hiatus in railway sector investment. The aging infrastructure had led to a decline in rail transport, pushing people towards cars and buses, resulting in congestion and increased air pollution in both cities.

Bashkim Kasoruho, Director of the Project Implementation Unit at Albanian Railways, is at the forefront of what he describes as a railway renaissance. “It's more than a project; it’s about reconnecting people—workers, students, tourists—through rail travel. Everyone stands to gain,” he explains.

Despite initial challenges due to years of underinvestment, the project is advancing, thanks to robust support from international partners. The major civil engineering work, including the construction of eight new railway bridges, is nearing completion. The focus is now on superstructure tasks like welding rail tracks and laying ballast and sleepers.

"The acquisition of new trains is the next major step. Our aim is to finish the railway reconstruction by the end of 2024, followed by procuring the trains,” Kasoruho adds.

Ekaterina Solovova, Head of Albania at the EBRD, emphasizes the bank's commitment: “We're ready to support not just the construction, but also the purchase of new trains and maintenance equipment.”

Funded by a €36.9 million loan from the EBRD and a €35.5 million investment grant from the EU, along with €2.75 million from bilateral donors, this project is a testament to international cooperation.

Lira Bejo, from the Albanian Ferries travel agency in Durres, anticipates the positive impact on tourism. “Rail travel will simplify things for tourists, enhancing transport quality and experience.”

In addition to the Tirana-Durres line, the project includes a new 5 km link between central Tirana and Tirana International Airport. Gentian Liko, CEO of Albanian Railways, shares further ambitions, including the Vore-Hani i Hotit railway project, which is part of the Trans European Transport Network.

Ekaterina Solovova stresses the wider significance: “The Tirana-Durres railway isn’t just about local benefits. It's about regional integration, trade opportunities, and moving towards sustainable, green economies in the Western Balkans.”

The EBRD's commitment to railway infrastructure, with over €1 billion invested across the region, reflects the broader goal of transitioning from road to rail for safer, greener, and more efficient travel.