Russian Railways Accuses VR: Russian Railways asserted on Friday that Finland’s state-owned railway company VR had acted unlawfully by seizing four trains co-owned through a joint venture. In a statement, Russian Railways emphasized that the transfer of trains had not been mutually agreed upon.
VR, responding on Thursday, explained that it had taken possession of the Allegro trains, which previously operated between the two countries, following more than 18 months of unsuccessful negotiations. Passenger trains between Finland and Russia were halted in March 2022, in the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
VR alleged that the Russian government, facing financial troubles in the Karelian Trains joint venture, had failed to meet its financial obligations. Consequently, the Russian government had redeemed Karelian Trains’ loans from Finnish banks, giving them the authority to seize the trains.
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Russian Railways stated that its repeated proposals to resume the operation of Allegro trains within existing agreements were not accepted by the Finnish side. This refusal, according to Russian Railways, resulted in lost income and an inability to fulfill obligations, ultimately leading to the insolvency of Karelian Trains.
The Allegro trains, identified as Sm6 tilting high-speed trains with seven carriages each, are now under Finnish control. VR plans to integrate them into domestic long-distance travel services in Finland starting in 2025. The situation highlights the ongoing dispute between the two railway companies and the implications for cross-border train services.
Our Reader’s Queries
Who is the owner of Russian Railways open joint stock company?
As the largest transport company in Russia and one of the biggest in the world, Russian Railways is solely owned by the Russian Federation. The government exercises shareholder powers on behalf of the country, making it a significant player in the industry.
How many miles of railroad are found in Russia?
With a staggering length of 85,500 kilometres (53,130 mi), the Russian Railways boasts one of the largest railway networks in the world, second only to the United States. This impressive feat is a testament to the country’s commitment to efficient transportation and infrastructure.
What is the total length of the railway line in Russia?
The infrastructure overview of the railway system includes a track gauge of 1,520 mm (4 ft 1127?32 in) and 1,435 mm (4 ft 81?2 in) from Kaliningrad to the Russian-Polish border. The electrification system is powered by 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC. The main length of the railway system spans 85,500 km (53,100 mi).
When was the first railroad built in Russia?
In 1836, Russia’s inaugural public railway was constructed, ranking as the sixth railway globally. The railway linked St Petersburg to Emperor Nicholas I’s dwelling in Tsarskoe Selo, presently recognized as Pushkin. The railway was later extended to Pavlovsk, totaling 27km in length.