Electrification project milestone achieved for railway between Keminmaa Laurila and Tornio in Finland

The electrification of the railway project connecting Tornio to Sweden has reached an important milestone, as the section between Keminmaa Laurila and Tornio will be powered on November 11, as announced by the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency. Throughout the remainder of the year, electrification work will continue from the Finland–Sweden border towards Haparanda, covering approximately one kilometer of track in Sweden.

The agency emphasizes that the high voltage present in electrified tracks can be dangerous. As part of the installation work for the electrification project, electric railway masts have been erected along the route, and infrastructure for overhead lines to support electric train travel has been constructed.

A conductor wire running above the railway from Laurila to Tornio has been installed. The electrified tracks carry a powerful voltage of 25,000 volts, which can pose significant risk if contacted, as the voltage is up to 100 times greater than that of a standard household socket. It is important to note that the voltage is always active, even when no train is visible.

The agency urges strict safety measures around the tracks, highlighting that trespassing on railways is both illegal and life-threatening. It is crucial to communicate the dangers related to railways, particularly the hazards of electrified tracks, especially to children and young adults, according to project manager Terhi Honkarinta.

Additionally, the railway section between Laurila and Tornio features level crossings. When crossing these, great care should be taken due to the electrified overhead wire, under which vehicles must be no taller than 4.5 meters.