BRATISLAVA-based regional operator BRKS is planning to launch open-access inter-city services from the capital to cities in eastern Slovakia, including Kosice.
BRKS is the most successful new operator on the Slovak network. As well as regional passenger services between Bratislava, Zohor and Zahorska Ves, it runs domestic and international freight services in co-operation with CD and MÁV. The company is also hoping to bid for further regional operating concessions when responsibility for these services is transferred to the local authorities in 2007.
To provide rolling stock for the expanded operations, BRKS has purchased five three-car DMUs from NS Reizigers. Built in the early 1960s, the 130 km/h Plan U sets were heavily refurbished and fitted with new engines at the end of the 1990s. Withdrawn in 2002 as surplus to requirements, they have since been stored at Amersfoort.
- In August the Slovak Ministry of Transport shortlisted eight of the 14 bidders who submitted tenders on July 29 to buy national rail freight operator ZSSK Cargo. Final bids were due on September 30, and the ministry hopes to complete the sale by the end of this year.
