The Swedish Transport Administration has successfully completed the first stage of a track change project on the Malmbanan line.
This follows a series of derailments and long-lasting traffic stoppage causing iron ore mines to accumulate stock aimed for export via the port of Kiruna.
The project involved replacing approximately 60 kilometers of rails (31 kilometers for each track) and installing around 50,000 new sleepers. Additionally, new ballast was laid along the entire section to support the upgraded infrastructure. This work is part of a larger effort to ensure that the line meets modern standards and operational requirements.
The next phase of the project is scheduled for the summer of 2025, targeting the section between Håmojåkk and Råtsi.
In December 2022, the maximum permitted axle load on the Gällivare-Råtsi section was reduced from 30 to 25 tons due to the track's condition not meeting the requirements for the higher load. With the completion of the track replacement, the axle load is expected to be increased back to 30 tons, improving the line's capacity and efficiency for heavy freight transport.
