Metro line M3 renovation: Will there be enough trains?

The deadline for the opening of metro line M3 in Budapest is fast approaching. The reconstruction of the entire line is scheduled to be completed by June 2023. However, it is still in question whether there will be a sufficient number of vehicles to meet service levels.

In response to Népszava‘s inquiries, BKV indicated that 9 of the 37 metro trains were not in running order. However, the company noted that they did not expect issues with the operation of the metro line as all will be sorted by the time summer arrives.

Although BKV claims there was no cause for concern, Népszava was less optimistic about the situation. For, as they write, the Russian metro trains restored by the Russian Metrowagonmash (MWM) appear to be of poor quality. Their article draws attention to rusting and the high maintenance requirements of the vehicles. Especially for these reasons, more and more trains are being taken out of service.

Sanctions complicate the situation

According to an expert contacted by Népszava, in order to operate a metro line safely, 30 in-service and 2 spare trains are required. Currently, two trains are completely out of order due to an accident last January. These vehicles cannot be repaired for the time being due to the Russian embargo, as some components are manufactured there.

The number of vehicles that can be placed in service has thus been permanently reduced to 35, which, due to the necessary technical inspections and maintenance, will allow only a pressingly tight schedule with the minimum number of trains,

writes Népszava.

Although due to the EU sanctions, it would not be possible to buy components from Russian suppliers, BKV told the paper that they had managed to obtain some items. Nevertheless, the company is trying to obtain most of the necessary components from stock and with the help of Hungarian manufacturers.

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Rusting vehicles

According to the newspaper, rusting of the trains is also an issue. According to a former statement by BKV, repairs had to be halted because of the war. Yet when contacted recently, the newspaper was told that the damage caused by the rust was being taken care of. The paper believes that BKV is likely to carry out the repairs at its own expense, despite the fact that the Russian manufacturer has given a 10-year guarantee against rusting.

BKV: no doubt that enough trains will be available

Shortly afterwards, BKV reacted to the article published by Népszava, Telex reports.

Népszava made a strong implication in its article that BKV had circumvented the embargo, but the company denied that it had done so. As the public transport company explained in its statement, the procurement was carried out in accordance with the laws and regulations in force.

BKV also pointed out that 9 trains were being repaired or overhauled at that time. All their operation is running smoothly. Regarding the guarantee, they are in contact with the Russian manufacturer. The manufacturer has already transferred EUR 7.160 million to cover the guarantee.

Despite the press reports, BKV said that it had a sufficient number of metro trains to ensure proper service on the entire metro line.

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Source: nepszava.hu, telex.hu