The three regions Arkhangelsk, Komi and Perm submitted an approval for a 176 billion ruble (€4,5 billion) project that is now under evaluation and awaiting approval from the Russian government. First tender could be announced early next year.
The agreement between Komi and Perm says the two federal subjects are determined to cooperate in implementation of an interregional comprehensive program of industrial and infrastructure development including the Belkomur project, PortNews reports.
When built, the 1,155 kilometers long railway will link the mining and industrial areas in the South-Urals to the port of Arkhangelsk via Syktyvkar in the Komi Republic. Also Murmansk intends to be linked to the Belkomur railway project and will then offer easier access to year-around ice-free shipping. Also the Transport Ministry in Moscow recommends that the new railway should specifically focus on Murmansk.
