Hub in Slovakia: Metrans to link Istanbul with Central Europe
Due to the growing demand for intermodal transport on the Middle Corridor, Czech rail freight operator Metrans has decided to launch a direct container train between Türkiye (Turkey) and Slovakia. The new intermodal service will become an important connection for delivering goods from Istanbul to Central Europe via Metrans Hub terminal Dunajská Streda.
For 3 September 2022, Metrans, the Czechia-based intermodal operator, has scheduled the launch of a new container train. It will directly link two key European intermodal terminals, Halkali on the European side of Istanbul and Dunajská Streda in southwestern Slovakia. “Through this connection, the transport of containers is ensured not only between Turkey and Slovakia but also will have access to all destinations within METRANS’ distribution network in countries such as Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and others,” the Czech company noted.
The freight trains between Istanbul and Dunajská Streda will run two times a week. Departures in both directions have been planned for Wednesdays and Saturdays and arrivals for Tuesdays and Fridays. On their way between the termini, they will cross Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary.
Partnership
The Istanbul – Dunajská Streda intermodal connection is the result of cooperation with a Turkish partner. It is Omsan Logistics, the well-known specialist in moving freight between Türkiye and Europe. Three weeks ago, on 4 July 2022, Metrans and Omsan Logistics concluded the partnership agreement. Its key goal is to develop and launch the new rail freight connections from Türkiye to the European intermodal terminals. The Slovak facility, which plays a significant role in Metrans’ network, will strengthen its role as a transit hub in Central Europe.
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