Texas Central anticipates FRA approval in July of bullet-train construction
Texas Central officials expect to receive federal approval this summer for construction of its Dallas-to-Houston bullet train, however the project’s timeline could be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is ready to begin the first phase of construction of its privately funded and operated high-speed rail line once global financial markets stabilize and the federal process is completed but project partners are in Italy, Spain, and Japan; all hard-hit bu the pandemic. [progressiverailroading.com]
Tel Aviv railway electrification work speeds up
Israel Railways is taking advantage of the stoppage of all trains due to the coronavirus lockdown to speed up electrification work in Tel Aviv. In the coming few weeks, electrification work should be completed between Tel Aviv’ Haganah and Savidor Central Stations. Electrification of the rail network, which is predominantly diesel, is Israel Railways’ flagship project. It will allow a substantial increase in the number of trains and passenger capacity while significantly reducing the level of pollution. [globes.co.il]
India plans to use train coaches as Covid-19 isolation wards
India is planning to use train coaches as coronavirus (Covid-19) isolation wards in response to the growing number of cases in the country. As part of the initiative, one railway coach has already been converted into a prototype quarantine facility to trial the concept. If the concept is approved, each of the railway zones will be ordered to transform ten coaches into such isolation wards every week. Coaches will be equipped to accommodate up to eight patients, with adaptability for up to 16 patients in worst scenarios. [railway-technology.com]
Mexico City readies $850M upgrade for oldest Metro line
The government of Mexico City plans to award an $850 million contract to modernize almost 19 km (12 mi) of the capital’s oldest Metro line, line No. 1. The contract includes the purchase of 30 new trains, rehabilitation of 10 existing trains and the replacement of the line’s autopilot system, according to government project tracker site Mexico Projects Hub. Metro line No. 1, also known as the pink line, is 50 years old and transports an estimated 1.14 million passengers per day, making it one of the most heavily used lines. [bnamericas.com]
