With the Starline project developed by the European-based think tank 21st Europe, it is planned to implement a 22,000 km high-speed train network covering 39 destinations, including Turkey, England and Ukraine, by 2040.

Connecting Europe Like a Metro: The Starline Project

The 21st Europe think tank, which aims to solve the fragmented structure, speed and accessibility problems in Europe's cross-border train transportation, has presented a giant railway network proposal called "Starline". The project, which aims to connect the continent like a metro network, is designed to cover 39 destinations, including Turkey, England and Ukraine.

The aim of the project is to provide an integrated, fast and environmentally friendly alternative to Europe's fragmented and slow railway system. The think tank defines the project not only as transportation, but also as an environmental and economic strategic necessity.

Transportation from Helsinki to Berlin Will Be Possible in 5 Hours

Starline, which will operate on a total of 22 thousand kilometers of line, plans to speed up transportation on the continent by 30 percent with trains that can travel at speeds of 300 to 400 kilometers per hour. Thanks to the project, the Helsinki-Berlin line will be reduced to around 5 hours, and routes such as Kiev-Berlin will become more accessible.

Instead of a class system, trains will feature functional areas such as quiet zones and family-friendly areas. The new stations will be designed as multi-purpose centers enriched with restaurants, shopping areas, cultural event areas and museums.

Contributing to the Zero Carbon Target

Starline also aims to contribute to Europe's 2050 net zero carbon targets. While it is pointed out that railway transportation emits 90 percent less carbon than short-distance flights, the project is expected to replace short-distance flights across the continent.

New Authority and Financing Model

The system envisages that national railway operators operate with a franchise model in a framework supported by public funding. It is stated that all infrastructure will be supervised by a new "European Railway Authority" (ERA) to be established at the EU level, and operational consistency will be ensured throughout Europe with common standards and a training system.

Source: Euronews