“Fitting out the Semmering Base Tunnel is an extremely complex task that requires a high level of railway engineering expertise. With its extensive experience in railway construction as part of its broad range of services, PORR is particularly well positioned here. We are proud to be making a significant contribution to expanding mobility in Europe with our partner Rhomberg Sersa Rail Group”, said Karl-Heinz Strauss, CEO of PORR.
The consortium will fit out the approximately 27-kilometre-long, twin-tube tunnel between Gloggnitz in Lower Austria and Mürzzuschlag in Styria. The EUR 176m contract includes telecommunications, electrical equipment with high-voltage systems, distribution boards, lighting and escape route labelling, as well as signage. The contract also includes the mechanical systems for air conditioning, ventilation and extinguishing water as well as locksmith work. The consortium partners will start planning immediately and construction is set to begin in June 2025. The tunnel is scheduled to open 2030.
Successful cooperation
Following on from the Koralm Tunnel, this is the second major ÖBB tunnel project to be fitted out by the PORR Group and Rhomberg Sersa Rail Group (RSRG). PORR is once again responsible for commercial management, while RSRG is the technical lead.
“We are thrilled to be able to contribute to a sustainable and safe connection between Lower Austria and Styria”, said Robert Kumpusch, Managing Director of RSRG’s project business. “And we’re happy to bring our expertise as a full-service provider with a large number of successfully realised projects”. PORR CEO Strauss: “Winning the contract here on the Semmering Base Tunnel is a nice confirmation of the work we have done on the Koralm Tunnel and we’re certain that we will once again meet the high expectations here in full”.
Facts and figures at a glance:
| Project type: | Railway construction fitout |
| Scope of services: | Railway technology and equipment including telecommunications, energy and safety technology, mechanical systems for air conditioning, ventilation and extinguishing water. |
| Client: | ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG |
| Contractor: | Consortium ARGE SBT4.1 Rhomberg Sersa Rail Group – PORR Group |
| Project duration: | 06/2024 – 11/2029 |
| Contract volume: | EUR 176m (consortium) |
