Monday, August 12th, 2024
In a major step towards improving Europe’s transport infrastructure, the European Parliament and the Council have adopted updated guidelines for the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). These guidelines aim to create a seamless, high-quality transport network that supports sustainable connectivity across the continent. This initiative is in line with ALICE’s mission to contribute to net-zero emissions logistics through innovation, collaboration and digital transformation and has been followed through our Policy Monitoring Group.
Key milestones and deadlines
The revised TEN-T guidelines outline ambitious goals for the completion of major transport projects, such as cross-border roads, railways, bridges, and tunnels. The core TEN-T network is expected to be operational by 2030, with an intermediate deadline of 2040 to ensure timely completion of the extended core projects. The comprehensive network should be completed by 2050. Notable projects include Rail Baltica, the Brenner Base Tunnel, and the Lisbon–Madrid high-speed rail line, all crucial for eliminating bottlenecks and improving connectivity.
Electrification and speed improvements
To modernise the railways, the new guidelines require that the core TEN-T network be fully electrified by 2030, with freight trains operating at a minimum speed of 100 km/h and passenger trains reaching at least 160 km/h by 2040. These improvements will significantly reduce travel times and increase efficiency, with border crossings within the EU taking less than 25 minutes on average.
Improving conditions for truck drivers and airports
MEPs also focused on the welfare of professional truck drivers by ensuring that safe parking areas are provided every 150 km along major EU roads. In addition, Europe’s major airports, which handle more than 12 million passengers a year, will be integrated into the trans-European rail network, improving accessibility and reducing carbon emissions.
Strategic shifts in response to geopolitical changes
In light of the current geopolitical landscape, the EU has decided to end transport infrastructure projects with Russia and Belarus and instead prioritise links with Ukraine and Moldova. This shift underlines the EU’s commitment to supporting its eastern neighbours and enhancing regional stability.
Enhancing military mobility
Acknowledging the importance of military logistics, the new guidelines include provisions on military mobility. This includes taking military needs into account when building or upgrading infrastructure and ensuring that the EU’s transport network can accommodate the rapid movement of troops and equipment. The European Commission will carry out a study on large-scale military movements to facilitate better planning and coordination.
The updated guidelines were adopted by the European Parliament and the Council and entered into force in July 2024. This legislative milestone responds to citizens’ demands for high-quality, modern, green and safe infrastructure to ensure full connectivity across Europe, including rural and island regions.