The InfraStatus 2023 report from Norwegian infrastructure operator Bane Nor shows that the maintenance requirements of the Norwegian railway network have increased by around €964 million (NOK 11 billion) in the space of a year. More than a fifth of the railway facilities need to be renewed in the next 12 years. Bane Nor has therefore called on politicians to make more money available for the expansion and renewal of the railway network, which has been underfunded for years. The report points to two important requirements in the coming years: the modernisation of parts of the overhead line systems and the improvement of drainage along railway lines. At least 5,000 culverts need to be renewed to prevent flooding and landslides. This will cost €11 billion, compared to an estimate of €10 billion in 2022. The number of train departures and passengers has increased significantly, which leads to faster wear and tear on the old and outdated rails.
