Portugal begins construction on Porto-Lisbon high-speed rail

Construction has officially commenced on the first phase of Portugal’s high-speed rail project, aimed at connecting Lisbon and Porto. The initial 71-kilometre stretch between Porto Campanhã and Oiã in the Aveiro district is scheduled for completion by 2030.

Once the entire network is operational, the project is expected to reduce travel time between the country’s two largest cities to approximately one hour and 15 minutes. The line will support train speeds of up to 300km/h and involves significant engineering, including eight kilometres of tunnels and 19 kilometres of bridges and viaducts.

The investment for the Porto to Oiã section is estimated at approximately €2 billion, with funding expected from the European Investment Bank and the Connecting Europe Facility. Subsequent sections, including Oiã to Soure and Soure to Carregado, are projected for completion by 2032.

While the project marks a major milestone for national infrastructure, local discussions emphasize the need for improved regional connectivity. Observers note that efficient rail links must also serve industrial and residential hubs like the Entre Douro e Vouga region to ensure the benefits of high-speed travel are democratized across the territory.