The Government of Romania has approved funding for the modernization and electrification of the Iasi-Ungheni railway line, a key cross-border infrastructure project aimed at strengthening rail connectivity between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, bani.md reports.
The project, valued at approximately 495.3 million Romanian lei (around €98 million), provides for the full rehabilitation and electrification of the 23.4 km section between Iasi and the border with Moldova. Authorities expect the works to be completed within 18 months.
Romanian officials say the investment will improve both passenger and freight transport by reducing travel times, increasing safety, and cutting emissions. Planned works on the Socola–Ungheni section include electrification, replacement of rails and sleepers, reinforcement of embankments, rehabilitation of bridges and level crossings, and modernization of power supply systems and station infrastructure.
Government documents note that the existing infrastructure has significant technical deficiencies, including worn track components, unstable embankments, and areas affected by flooding, which currently limit speed and safety.
Funding will come equally from non-reimbursable EU support through the Connecting Europe Facility and from Romania’s state budget. The railway is part of the EU’s TEN-T transport network and the Baltic Sea–Black Sea–Aegean Sea corridor, which makes it strategically important for regional integration and for improving Moldova’s access to European rail systems.