(May 12, 2017) Consulting, knowledge sharing for the development of integrated rail systems, provision of rolling stock and technical assistance. These are the pillars of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Montevideo between Italian and Uruguayan Railways for a stable cooperation between the two railway companies in different technical areas, reinforcing existing agreements. The relations between the FS Italiane Group and the Administración de Ferrocarriles del Estado (AFE), both Uruguay’s network and transport services, began in 2005 with a previous MoU and Trenitalia’s sale of 300 coaches. Afe, in its 2017-2022 strategic development plan, provides for significant investments in infrastructure and rolling stock, with the aim of modernizing the rail system as a whole. “The signing of this new MoU – explains a note – is the manifestation of the mutual will of cooperation that the two railway companies are developing in areas identified as priorities. The provision of rolling stock, the development of the national railway network and the training of Uruguayan railroad personnel”. The Italian FS Group has received in the past weeks an Afe request for the supply of more than 200 wagons (hoppers, floorboards, chassis wagons), which will be used for the transport of pulp, cereal and ballast. The Polo Mercitalia has already submitted a sales offer, currently being evaluated by Afe. The Paso Los Toros-Montevideo line has also been identified for the first technological and infrastructural enhancements that will help raise line standards and increase commercial speeds up to 80 km / h. The upgrade project has an economic value of about $ 500 million. The line (270 km) is a priority for the transport of cellulose, about 2 million tonnes / year. (Red)
