Aleksandar Nikoloski says cargo and passenger trains between Prilep and Bitola expected to start soon
Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski says rail links are expected to relieve road congestion during highway works between Prilep and Bitola.
Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski said he expects cargo and intercity passenger rail services between Prilep and Bitola to begin operating soon, a move officials hope will ease road congestion caused by ongoing highway works.
Background
The construction of the new Prilep–Bitola highway and the continued use of the old road as an alternative route have significantly increased traffic on the existing section. Authorities and local road users say the worn state of the old road has raised safety concerns and put pressure on both businesses and residents in the area.
Nikoloski previously announced plans, months ago, to introduce both cargo and intercity passenger rail connections between the two cities. Despite those earlier statements, the rail services have not yet been put into operation.
Answering reporters today, Nikoloski said he "expects cargo and passenger rail services to start operating soon."
Officials and local stakeholders expect that launching the rail links will help reduce road traffic, offer an alternative for commuters and provide additional capacity for transporting goods between Prilep and Bitola.
So far no precise start date has been announced for the rail services.
Photo: press material from the event
