Has Putin Ordered the Development of Russia's High-Speed Rail Roadmap?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The roadmap for the high-speed rail network is due by March 31, 2026.
- A funding of 300 billion rubles has been allocated from the National Wealth Fund.
- The Moscow-St. Petersburg route will drastically reduce travel time.
- The initiative aims to modernize Russia's transportation infrastructure.
- Key officials are responsible for the oversight of the project.
Moscow, Aug 1 (NationPress) The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, has directed the government to create a strategic roadmap aimed at establishing a high-speed rail network across the country by March 31, 2026, as stated in directives released on the Kremlin's official website.
According to the published information, the Government of the Russian Federation, in collaboration with Russian Railways, a publicly traded company, is tasked with devising a comprehensive development model for the high-speed rail network. This initiative will include detailed timelines and specifications for the execution of each project designed to build high-speed rail lines.
Putin has also instructed the government and SberBank, the largest bank in Russia, to draft plans for the allocation of 300 billion rubles (approximately $3.7 billion) sourced from the National Wealth Fund, which is designated as initial funding for the high-speed rail line connecting Moscow and St. Petersburg. A report on this funding is expected by October 1.
The mandate specifies the development of a model for the main high-speed railways in the Russian Federation, detailing specific implementation deadlines and project parameters required for the establishment of these high-speed railway lines.
The route between Moscow and St. Petersburg will mark the launch of Russia's inaugural high-speed railroad, featuring a specialized electrified double-track line that will enable trains to operate at speeds ranging from 200 to 400 kph. The journey between the two cities is projected to take just two hours and 15 minutes.
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Russian Railways CEO Oleg Belozerov have been designated as the officials responsible for overseeing this ambitious project.