In a significant development for Bulgaria’s rail transport sector, the Polish company Pojazdy Szynowe PESA Bydgoszcz SA, commonly known as PESA, has been awarded a contract to supply 35 trains to the country.
This decision by Bulgaria’s Ministry of Transport marks a pivotal shift following the withdrawal of Stadler Polska, the firm initially positioned to secure the deal.
The announcement comes after Stadler Polska, which had been ranked first for the contract to deliver seven double-decker trains funded by Bulgaria’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, requested to terminate the agreement.
This contract, originally signed on April 26, was intended to bolster Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with modern rolling stock.
Acting Minister of Transport Georgi Gvozdeikov elaborated on the circumstances surrounding Stadler’s withdrawal.
According to Gvozdeikov, Stadler had presented “ultimate requirements” and sought to modify the contract’s scope beyond what is allowed under the Law on Public Procurement.
These alterations were deemed non-compliant with the established procurement regulations, leading to the firm’s exclusion from the contract.
PESA, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Bydgoszcz, Poland, has emerged as a prominent player in the rail vehicle manufacturing industry.
Known for its innovation and commitment to advancing rail technology, PESA designs and produces a diverse array of rail equipment.
This includes electric and diesel trains, trams, and other rail vehicles. The company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality motor and double-decker trains, which are celebrated for their reliability and modern features.
The choice of PESA to fulfill this contract reflects the company’s strong track record and technological prowess. With its robust international presence, PESA has successfully supplied rail vehicles to various countries across Europe and beyond.
The firm’s selection for this significant contract underscores its capacity to meet Bulgaria’s requirements and contribute to the modernization of the country’s rail network.
The contract with PESA is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure.
The new trains are anticipated to improve service efficiency and passenger comfort, aligning with Bulgaria’s broader goals of upgrading its transport systems and supporting sustainable development.
As Bulgaria moves forward with this new agreement, the Ministry of Transport will oversee the implementation process to ensure that the delivery and deployment of the trains meet the stipulated standards and timelines.
The transition from Stadler to PESA marks a notable shift in the project’s trajectory, but it also highlights the dynamic nature of public procurement and the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks.
The rail sector in Bulgaria, like many other parts of Europe, faces growing demands for modernization and efficiency.
The arrival of PESA’s trains is poised to address some of these challenges, reinforcing the country’s commitment to improving its transportation infrastructure and services.