Bratislava Main Railway Station Awaiting Two Stages of Reconstruction

Bratislava, 23 February (TASR) - The long-awaited reconstruction of Bratislava's Main Railway Station is one step closer to becoming a reality, Transport Minister Jozef Raz (a Smer-SD nominee) and railway infrastructure operator ZSR head Miroslav Garaj told a press conference on Monday, adding that the project is planned in stages. The preparatory work should begin in April, followed by construction work as part of a small-scale reconstruction. This mainly concerns the sanitary facilities, which are in a state of disrepair, and the interconnection of the station wings. "The result will be a new look for this Main Station in the form we know it. It means that we can expect no visual changes other than it will be new, clean, attractive, functional and in compliance with standards and hygiene requirements. Let's add barrier-free access and a connection between the exit and entrance," said Raz, adding that it is estimated that work on the small-scale reconstruction should be completed by the end of this year. At the same time, project work on a major renovation will begin this week. It is estimated that this work will commence at the turn of 2027 and 2028 and will involve the original station building, including its extension. The work is also being consulted with preservationists. The interior, including the floors, ceilings and facade with glazing, will undergo changes to let more light into the station, among other aims. "I'm very pleased that we're starting work, be it small or large, on the current Main Station building. The Main Station really deserves improved comfort and increased safety," said Garaj. The cost of reconstruction is estimated at several tens of millions of euros, but, according to the Transport Ministry and ZSR, it isn't possible to specify the exact amount at this time. This will depend on specific project work and the decisions made by preservationists. However, according to the minister, the European Commission has promised that a large part of the cost could be financed via EU funds. am/df