Malmbanan disruption: replacement bus services affect tourism

#NordicNews on train traffic and Sweden

Swedish Transport Administration's decision poses challenges for locals, tourists and businesses

The Swedish Transport Administration recently announced that passenger services on the Malmbanan north of Abisko östra will be suspended for several more months. Tourists and locals alike will therefore be forced to use replacement buses between Abisko östra and Narvik. In contrast, freight trains are allowed to resume operations.

In December, a freight train derailed in Vassijaure, which led to the interruption of passenger services on the Malmbanan. Guests either decided not to travel or canceled their plans, which had serious consequences. The date for the resumption of services has been continuously postponed since the derailment, causing uncertainty and disruption to planning. It was only last Friday that the Swedish Transport Administration announced its decision and indicated different timetables for freight and passenger services.

Petter Östmark, Managing Director at Vy Tåg, emphasized: "The decision will have a significant impact on our passengers' ability to reach their destinations and on our company as a whole. We will maintain an ongoing dialogue with the Swedish Transport Administration and at the same time take measures to minimize the negative impact."

Marit Sarri, Area Manager Norrbotten, Swedish Tourist Board, commented: "During the ski season we normally record 39,000 guest nights at STF Abisko Tourist Station and the Northern Kungsleden. However, we have already received 2,300 cancelations with a total value of over SEK 3 million due to this last minute announcement. Our guests at STF prefer train travel and emphasize the importance of easy accessibility."

The delay in the resumption of passenger services is due to safety reasons. The repair work has been carried out under challenging conditions and ongoing assessments of the development of freight traffic will determine when passenger services can resume.

Linda Andersson, General Manager of the resorts in Björkliden, Riksgränsen and Låktajåkko Fjällstation, emphasized: "Our booked guests, mostly international guests and Swedish families with children, are our priority. We are committed to ensuring their safety on their journey. Our numerous subcontractors and partners, who organize various events and activities, depend on a functioning public transport connection."

Passenger services are expected to resume in the spring.

More on the Malmbanan (in Swedish).

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