Infrastructure operator SNCF Réseau has awarded four contracts totalling €1.8 billion for the renewal of main line tracks and the replacement of switches and ballast on high-speed rail (HSR) lines in France by the end of 2030. The contracts are intended to contribute to the general improvement of the French railway network. The winners of the tender are the Eiffage-Captrain consortium for the first and fourth lots worth €415 million over four years, which could rise to €790 million if the options are utilised by 2030. The joint venture of Colas Rail and TSO has won the second lot and ETF the third lot worth €700 million, which includes the upgrade of more than 800 km of track by the end of 2030. The French government is supporting the renewal and modernisation of the infrastructure with €1.5 billion annually. In 2024, SNCF Réseau plans to invest €3.2 billion in 1,600 major projects to renew 1,064 km of track and replace or remove 492 switches.
