Rail Transport: EU extends COVID-19 support measure

In a bid to help the railway sector cope with the ongoing pandemic, the EU today extended the possibility for Member States to reduce, waive or defer the payment of rail infrastructure charges until 30 June 2022.

Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean said: “The COVID-19 crisis has been an unprecedented challenge for people, businesses and governments everywhere – including here in the EU. For almost two years now, the pandemic has created extraordinary circumstances that affect the day-to-day activity of transport companies and operators. Extending the possibility for Member States to support the rail sector will help ensure the economic recovery of rail.”

The measure was first introduced in October 2020 (Regulation (EU) 2020/1429), aiming to reduce the financial burden on railway undertakings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the continued negative impact of COVID-19 on the sector, the EU now prolonged the period in which the Member States can use this option.

Following the vote in the European Parliament last week and the adoption of the final position by the Council today, the Regulation will be signed and published in the Official Journal of the EU, entering into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. It shall apply from 1 January 2022.