Rail Freight Corridor North Sea–Rhine–Mediterranean

The former Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs) Rhine-Alpine and North Sea–Mediterranean have officially merged into the new RFC North Sea–Rhine–Mediterranean (NSRM), aligning with the European Transport Corridor (ETC) framework under Regulation (EU) 2024/1679. This strategic move enhances European rail freight by creating a more integrated, efficient, and sustainable transport network. Spanning seven countries—The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy—the NSRM corridor includes 12,150 km of railways, 5,000 km of roads, and 5,030 km of inland waterways, linking key industrial and logistical hubs from the North Sea to the Mediterranean. The merger supports the EU’s TEN-T Regulation goals for a high-quality transport network by 2050, with milestones in 2030 and 2040. It emphasizes improved cross-border coordination, investment planning, and innovation. Developed with input from infrastructure managers and national ministries, the NSRM Implementation Plan defines operational and governance frameworks, supported by a Transport Market Study analyzing freight flows and terminal capacities. Key benefits include harmonized operations, coordinated ERTMS deployment, streamlined timetabling, and better communication with stakeholders. The corridor also advances the EU Green Deal by encouraging a modal shift from road to rail. Ongoing stakeholder engagement through advisory groups and consultations ensures transparency and responsiveness. NSRM invites public and private partners to help shape a faster, safer, and more sustainable future for European rail freight.