Temuco-Gorbea railway extension project reaches 20% completion

Infrastructure work is underway for the Temuco-Gorbea railway extension project in Chile's La Araucanía Region. The project, which has reached a 20% progress rate in its first phase, focuses on replacing rail infrastructure, including the renewal of 45 kilometers of track, installation of concrete sleepers, and the construction of 32 pedestrian crossings.

Once completed, the upgrades will allow passenger trains to increase speeds from 50 km/h to 130 km/h, while freight trains can reach up to 100 km/h. A second phase will involve station improvements, such as new roofs and higher platforms. Passenger services between the two cities are projected to resume in the second half of 2027.

The $37.7 million investment includes the arrival of new trains manufactured in China, which are expected to reach Chile in August. These trains will undergo static and dynamic testing throughout the second half of 2026. The project aims to serve more than 4 million passengers annually.