In Switzerland, freight transport via rail and inland waterways could become more efficient thanks to the revision of the Freight Transport Act, which was approved on September 24, 2024, by the Council of States with 35 votes in favor, three against, and three abstentions. The measure includes significant upgrades to the railway network and river navigation systems, supported by federal funding. Currently, rail transport accounts for about 40% of freight, but the system requires a technological overhaul.
One of the most notable aspects of the reform is the introduction of Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC), a cutting-edge innovation that will allow freight wagons to be automatically coupled and uncoupled. Currently, this process is done manually, but with DAC, freight trains will be digitally and electrically connected, dramatically improving the efficiency of the rail system. Switzerland aims to convert around 15,000 wagons and 520 locomotives by 2033, in line with European plans. The Swiss government has proposed an investment contribution of 180 million Swiss francs to support this upgrade.
Beyond digitalization, the project aims to incentivize the modernization of single-wagon transport. Over an eight-year period, the Confederation plans to allocate 260 million francs to support this transition, with the goal of making the system self-sustaining in the medium term. The package also includes permanent funding for freight transshipment and loading, as well as subsidies to cover costs not covered by the standard freight transport offering. These contributions will amount to 60 million francs per year.
Lastly, the plan seeks to strengthen navigation on the Rhine River. Several measures will be implemented to promote propulsion systems free from fossil fuels for cargo vessels, ensuring greater environmental sustainability. The objective is for inland water and rail transport to play an even more decisive role in ensuring supply security across all regions of the country in the future. The proposal now moves to the National Council for final approval.
