THE GOVERNMENT of Argentina was expected to begin tendering last month for a programme of electrification, resignalling, track renewals and station refurbishment on the Roca suburban network in Buenos Aires.
Due to take two years to complete at a cost of 1·42bn pesos, the work will be funded by the state. The wiring programme will start with two currently unelectrified tracks between Avellaneda and Temperley, followed by the Avellaneda - Berazategui - La Plata route and Berazategui - Bosques - Claypole to form an electrified loop.
The programme includes the acquisition of 12 new EMU cars, five DMU cars and the rebuilding of five diesel locos. The Roca network is also to receive 44 three-car EMUs purchased from CP of Portugal. On March 21 the government signed a contract to buy 25 three-car EMUs, six diesel railcars, 25 diesel locos and 20 coaches from CP for €22·1m, with the first of three consignments due to be shipped in July.
Under a programme costing a total of 533m pesos, the 31 km Belgrano Norte route between Buenos Aires and Gonz
