Spanning 620 meters, the Vinjan Viaduct is the longest bridge along the second track of the railway line. It serves as a crucial link between the Mlinarji tunnel (T7) and the Škofije tunnel (T8), crossing over the Vinjan valley. This section is part of a larger project that includes two other viaducts, the Glinščica, completed in 2022, and the Gabrovica, finished at the end of the previous year. The construction of the Vinjan Viaduct began in the spring of 2022.
Geological and geomechanical surveys identified a dormant fossil landslide in the area of the valley where the viaduct now stands. To ensure the long-term stability and safety of the structure, the construction technique was modified from the originally planned incremental launch method to a freely cantilevered construction approach. This adjustment led to a redesign of the viaduct, reducing the number of columns in the landslide-prone area and altering the dimensions to maintain a visually pleasing ratio akin to the golden ratio.
The completion of the viaduct is a significant milestone in the project, with the next steps including the construction of noise and wind barriers to mitigate environmental impact.
During the ceremony, the government's support for the accelerated development of railway infrastructure was underscored, highlighting its potential to boost the economy through enhanced connectivity for the Port of Koper and the broader transport and logistics sectors. The construction of the second railway line is seen as vital for the sustainable future of transport in the region, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting rail as a safe and sustainable mode of transport.
The successful completion of the Vinjan Viaduct, undertaken by Slovenian construction company Kolektor, is viewed as a testament to the local industry's capability and a positive step towards achieving greater efficiency and capacity in Slovenia's railway network. The project is part of a broader initiative to strengthen rail transport in Europe, aligning with goals to increase sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of transportation.
