Future Extensions
A new Ring Rail Line is under construction and slated for completion in August 2014. It will extend the Vantaankoski branch via Aviapolis and Helsinki-Vantaa airport to the Main Line just north of Tikkurila station. The extension is drafted to introduce five new stations with reservations for three more. Unlike other tracks, a section of Ring Line beneath the airport will run in tunnel with tunnel stations for the airport and Aviapolis. Planning and construction of Ring Line has been realized so that it will be possible to construct a branch line to Klaukkala in the future.
There are existing plans to extend four track line to Espoo from Leppävaara. This would enable enhanced service interval to Kauklahti and also benefit long-distance traffic to Turku, which is now hampered by commuter trains on the same tracks in the section between Kirkkonummi and Leppävaara.
A major increase in capacity of Helsinki Central station has been planned as no new services can be introduced since rail capacity at Helsinki station is fully used at peak hours. The Helsinki City Rail Loop would feature an underground, drop-shaped railway starting just south of Pasila railway station and coming back from tunnel at almost same location after travelling in a loop around under Helsinki city centre. There would be three underground stations at Hakaniemi metro station, the Central railway station and Opera House. The extension is expensive and not likely to be completed before 2020.
Read more about this topic: VR Commuter Rail
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