M-line to run past 2031; weekend trains and new stops planned in Tampere
The M-line will run past 2031, with weekend trains and new stops planned as funding and planning are coordinated with neighbouring municipalities and Traficom.
Tampere will keep commuter rail running past 2031 on the Nokia–Tampere–Lempäälä–Akaa corridor, and plans to expand services with weekend trains and new stops once they are completed. The decision sets a path for the existing M-line to operate after the national contracting round due around 2031. Weekend frequency will increase. Stations such as Epilä and Sääksjärvi are being prepared for service.
Preparations are also advancing for commuter trains in the Ylöjärvi–Orivesi direction, coordinated with neighbouring municipalities and the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom. The city has expressed interest in developing commuter links between Tampere and Turku.
Expanding services will depend on joint funding arrangements as Finland moves to nationwide rail tendering. Meeting agendas and minutes are available for review.
A recent draft estimated that adding weekend M-line service could cost local municipalities roughly €1.7 million a year draft estimate of €1.7M in extra annual costs. Traficom has set a September deadline for regions to decide on train purchases tied to the 2031 timetable Traficom's September deadline.
Earlier coverage
Catch the full story over at City of Tampere
