One of the most important tests of the electrification project was carried out on the fully electrified Kaišiadorys–Gaižiūnai railway section: dynamic contact network tests involving double traction and two coupled Stadler electric trains with two pantographs each. A pantograph is a device mounted on a train that collects electrical power from the overhead line and supplies it to the train's motors and batteries. These tests enable us to assess how the contact network performs under conditions that create higher loads. 

"We are seeing clear progress – the final inspections and tests are underway, and we are approaching the moment when the country’s railway system will fundamentally change. Travel on the main route from the capital to the seaside will become not only greener, but also more comfortable and faster," says the Minister of Transport, Juras Taminskas. 

During the test, the geometry of the contact network was checked and the effect of the contact line on pantograph vibration was measured. The results confirmed that the technical characteristics of the new contact network meet the requirements of the International Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI).  

"Double-traction testing is a highly significant stage of the project, confirming that the newly installed contact network meets the highest technical standards. It is another step towards modernising, sustaining and speeding up Lithuania's railway infrastructure. I would like to thank the team for their consistent and professional implementation of this complex project," says Vytautas Radzevičius, LTG Group’s Director of Strategy and Business Development. 

Once all the planned tests have been completed, this will be confirmed by the relevant certification. Currently, the LTG Infra team has completed approximately half of the mandatory contact network tests, meaning that the project is rapidly approaching one of its most important milestones: full system certification and readiness for operation. 

The electrification project is one of the largest railway infrastructure modernisation initiatives in the country’s history. It includes the electrification of the 363 km Vilnius–Klaipėda line, the construction of traction substations, the installation of autotransformers and solutions to ensure a stable electricity supply. 

Once electrification is complete, new Stadler electric passenger trains will operate on one of Lithuania’s busiest routes. These trains will be fully accessible for people with special needs, making travel more comfortable, safer, and more pleasant for all passengers. 

Passenger and freight trains running on the electrified line will reduce air pollution by around 150,000 tonnes per year, and the total social and economic benefits will exceed €700 million. Upon completion of the project, the proportion of electrified railway lines in Lithuania will increase from 8 to 28 per cent.