Hitachi Rail to deliver advanced signalling systems for Kapıkule Station in Turkey

• Strategic signalling project at key Turkish border station will enhance interoperability with European networks
• Contract includes design and implementation of IXL, CTC, Train Detection and ETCS Level 1 digital signalling systems for 200 km/h operations
• Contract sits as part of a project to deliver a new double-track high-speed line, replacing a single conventional line and enhancing the lines role as a transport bridge between Europe and Asia.

Hitachi Rail has been awarded a new contract by KOLİN İNŞAAT TURİZM SANAYİ VE TİCARET A.Ş. for the design, supply and supervision of installation of the core signalling systems for Kapıkule Station, Turkey's final rail gateway to Europe. The scope includes Interlocking (IXL), Centralized Traffic Control (CTC), Train Detection (Track Circuits) and ETCS Level 1 digital signalling systems, designed for train operation at speeds of up to 200 km/h.

This strategic contract covers the conventional line section between Edirne West and Kapıkule East, as well as the Kapıkule East to Kapıkule West segment.

Kapıkule Station plays a crucial role for both passenger and freight transport, serving as the last Turkish station before the Bulgarian border on the corridor linking Istanbul to Europe. The route is part of a broader modernization plan, which includes a new high-speed double-track line from Istanbul to Edirne, currently under construction.

The station will be equipped with advanced track circuits and ETCS Level 1, ensuring enhanced safety and interoperability with European networks. Additionally, new Interlocking System will be deployed as well as new CTC functionalities, enhancing the operational efficiency of the line. These systems will have interface with signalling systems in the current facilities.

Hitachi Rail’s participation in this project builds upon its proven track record in Turkey, where it has successfully delivered key signalling and control systems at stations such as Gaziray, Başkentray and Eskişehir. In Eskişehir, Hitachi Rail supplied complete signalling, safety, control, and telecommunications systems across all station tracks, underscoring its capability and commitment to the Turkish High Speed railway network.

“With this latest contract, Hitachi Rail continues supporting Turkey's vision of a modern, connected, and secure rail infrastructure integrated with the wider European network.”, comments Barış Balcılar - Hitachi Rail General Manager in Turkey.

Construction of the new Kapikule station

Currently, the route between Istanbul and the Bulgarian border operates through a single-track conventional railway line. Kapıkule Station sits on this line, handling international and domestic rail traffic at a critical junction.

As part of a broader modernization and connectivity effort, a new double-track high-speed line—designed for speeds of up to 200 km/h—is under construction between Istanbul and Edirne. The second phase of this project, stretching from Çerkezköy (included) to Kapıkule (not included), is currently in progress, where Hitachi is providing the track circuits for that section also.

The construction of the new Kapıkule Station complements this infrastructure overhaul and marks a significant step in enhancing Türkiye's role as a transport bridge between Europe and Asia.