The decision paves the way for finalizing the sale transaction of the cargo transport company, which is not considered a strategic asset for the state.
Currently employing nearly 200 people, Operail has attracted significant interest from potential buyers, both domestic and international. The privatization process is divided into two stages. The first stage, which began in June, involved a public auction where interested parties reviewed initial information and submitted non-binding offers.
In the upcoming second stage, selected investors will access more detailed information to prepare binding purchase offers. Today's approval by the Cabinet allows for detailed negotiations with these companies once binding offers are received. LHV Investment Banking Unit is overseeing the auction process.
Operail's C30-M locomotive gains certification for mainline service
At the same time, Operail gets the approval to register its C30-M locomotive as a mainline freight locomotive. This certification allows the C30-M to handle the entire freight transport process independently, including both shunting and line service operations.
The C30-M locomotive, built in Tapa, Estonia, is designed as a versatile engine. Its optimal size and bidirectional control make it suitable for shunting tasks, while its power enables it to manage mainline operations. Previously registered only as a shunter, the C30-M had performed limited mainline trips under existing regulations.
The new certification means the C30-M can now replace older models like the C36-7i locomotives for certain operations. Although less powerful than the C36, the C30-M is more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. For heavier trains, two C30-M units can be used coupled, with one acting as auxiliary power when needed.
The certification process, which began late last year, involved extensive technical consultations and numerous test runs. Operail's Tapa depot is unique in Estonia for building locomotives. The C30-M project started in 2016, with the first locomotive completed in 2017. Currently, twelve locomotives have been built, nine of which are used in Estonia, while three operate in Finland after adaptation and certification for Finnish railways. The C30-M is assembled using components from General Electric and European manufacturer CZ Loko, featuring a Caterpillar 3512C HD diesel engine.
