Järnvägslagen

Järnvägslagen, officially Lag (2004:519) om spårbundna transportmedel, is the primary Swedish legislation governing railways and other track-bound transport systems. It aims to create a safe, efficient, and non-discriminatory railway market. The law encompasses a broad range of aspects, including the safety of railway infrastructure and rolling stock, the licensing of railway companies, and the regulation of access to the railway network.

Key provisions of Järnvägslagen address the responsibilities of infrastructure managers, such as maintaining tracks, signaling systems, and stations to ensure safe operations. It also sets requirements for train operators, including obtaining permits for operating trains and ensuring the safety of their rolling stock and crews. The law establishes the framework for independent safety assessments and investigations of railway accidents.

Furthermore, Järnvägslagen promotes competition by ensuring fair and non-discriminatory access to the railway infrastructure for all authorized operators. This includes provisions for charging fair access fees. The Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) is the central authority responsible for implementing and enforcing the provisions of Järnvägslagen, including issuing licenses, supervising safety, and overseeing market access. The law is designed to align with relevant European Union directives on railway safety and market liberalization.