The infrastructure renewal works on the Bologna-Milan high-speed line, managed by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI), were completed as scheduled on August 18, 2024. The project, which involved the replacement of several switches, began on August 12 and lead to temporary diversion of fast trains to the conventional line.
With the work now concluded, high-speed trains are once again using the dedicated AV (Alta Velocità) line. However, regulations for infrastructure renewal require a gradual increase in speed on the sections affected by the maintenance. As a result, passengers can expect travel times to be extended by approximately 15 to 20 minutes until August 25. This adjustment has already been reflected in the ticketing systems of the railway operators. Normal service with full-speed operations is anticipated to resume on August 26.
The renewal project involved around 90 technicians from RFI and associated contractors, who worked around the clock across three construction sites. The operation included the installation of new switches, each 140 meters in length and weighing approximately 200 tonnes. These components were transported and positioned using telescopic cranes and specialized motorized vehicles.
This work is part of a broader extraordinary maintenance plan for the high-speed line, which supports nearly 200 trains daily. In addition to these upgrades, the line undergoes regular maintenance, primarily carried out during nighttime hours to minimize disruption to services.
