# Salvador VLT expansion and rail development > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/salvador-vlt-expansion-and-rail-development > Updated: 2026-10-09T11:00:39.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. The Light Rail Vehicle (VLT) system in Salvador, Brazil, has transitioned into an operational phase. Initially, the service expanded to connect Calçada Station to the São Joaquim stop, operating under an assisted phase managed by the Companhia de Transportes do Estado da Bahia (CTB) to monitor performance. Following these initial steps, the project moved into experimental trips covering routes such as Calçada–Feira de São Joaquim and Porto das Sardinhas–Estação Acesso Norte. The VLT is intended to replace the former urban train system in the Subúrbio Ferroviário to improve mobility and network connectivity. Concurrently, the government of Bahia is conducting feasibility studies to expand the rail network beyond the capital. While previous plans focused on Alagoinhas, officials are now considering extensions to Juazeiro. The state is seeking approximately R$ 16 million for these studies and is exploring the integration of passenger and freight services, as well as the potential implementation of higher-speed intercity trains. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-09: Salvador VLT begins experimental trips as Bahia studies rail expansion Salvador has begun experimental trips for its new VLT light rail system, while the Bahia government studies expanding the network to Alagoinhas or Juazeiro. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/salvador-vlt-begins-experimental-trips-as-bahia-studies-rail-expansion ### 2026-09-16: Salvador VLT expands service to São Joaquim station Salvador's VLT light rail system has launched a new operational stretch between Calçada Station and São Joaquim, expanding the network to seven kilometers during an assisted testing phase. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/salvador-vlt-expands-service-to-so-joaquim-station --- Cite as: Salvador VLT expansion and rail development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/salvador-vlt-expansion-and-rail-development