Sweden’s traffic administration intends to advance several rail infrastructure projects along the country’s northern Iron Ore Line, which is crucial for mines in the area. Moreover, Sweden is considering raising track access charges to fund a partial double track between Boden and Luleå.

Sweden’s northern rail infrastructure is vital for some of Europe’s largest mining companies. Two derailments in late 2023 and early 2024 highlighted the need for better infrastructure as the mines’ stocks piled up.

Consequently, the Swedish government instructed the traffic administration to investigate if a number of planned improvements could be brought forward. The traffic administration has now concluded that a partial double track and a new passing loop between Norra Sunderbyn and Sävastklinten can be built earlier than initially planned for.

Moreover, along the Iron Ore Line, extensions of the passing loops at Harrträsk, Nuortikon, Näsberg and Murjek can be implemented earlier. Lastly, the rail yards at Sikträsk and Nattavaara can likewise be expanded sooner. Most projects can commence in 2025 or 2026, which is one or two years earlier than the originally planned start.

Higher TACs for a double track?

Besides improvements on the Iron Ore Line, the neighbouring rail section between Boden and Luleå requires upgrades to facilitate reliable rail freight traffic. Sweden, therefore, intends to build an additional track on that section, but the question of financing remains up in the air. A TAC increase seems to be on the table, even if Sweden is already raising TACs by 40 per cent in 2024.

The traffic administration inquired with various companies, including the large mining companies in the region, about their willingness to co-finance the double track. Perhaps unsurprisingly, all respondents indicated that they believe it is the government’s responsibility to finance rail infrastructure.

Now, the Swedish traffic administration is looking into a TAC increase to finance the construction of a double track between Luleå and Boden. A report on the matter is due to come out before the end of the year. A number of companies have reported a more positive stance towards this model of financing than direct co-financing, according to the traffic administration.

Yet another closure

As Sweden looks into upgrading the Iron Ore line, problems along the route continue to appear. The line north of Abisko, close to the Norwegian border and on the way to the important port of Narvik, has been closed since 31 May. The line has been affected by sun kinks, which are deformations that occur following large changes in temperature. Reportedly, the earliest possible reopening of the line is Saturday 8 June.

Also read:

• Swedish rail investments “urgent” for industry to flourish
• Europe’s mining giant scrapes for options to secure more rail capacity
• Lack of capacity along Iron Ore Line puts hundreds of LKAB jobs at risk