Finland’s transport minister pushes for Pori–Parkano–Haapamäki railway due to changed security situation

Work Minister Matias Marttinen has reiterated support for constructing the Pori–Parkano–Haapamäki railway line, citing Finland’s altered security environment as justification for the project, Yle reports.

Speaking at a May Day event in Rauma, Marttinen stressed the need to carefully review existing studies while advocating for continued planning. “It’s important that the preparatory work moves forward,” he said. The estimated cost of the 200-kilometre line is €1–1.3 billion.

The proposal contradicts a March assessment by the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, which concluded that upgrading the route—currently an unused corridor—would require a full rebuild and did not warrant further development.

Highway expansion funding secured after “tough” negotiations
Marttinen also confirmed that four-lane upgrades to Highway 2 (VT2) between Tiilimäki and Korven will begin next year, following what he described as intense government debates over the €60 million allocation. The Korven interchange lies on the boundary of Uusikaupunki and Rauma.

“The funding didn’t come easily,” the minister noted, adding that construction can start immediately once planning is finalised.