Raideverkosto

Raideverkosto is the Finnish term for a country’s railway infrastructure network, encompassing the railway lines, stations, yards, signaling and control systems, electrification, power supply, and maintenance facilities that enable rail transport. It is the underlying framework on which train operations rely and is distinct from rolling stock and the services provided by train operators.

In Finland, the rail network is largely built around a broad gauge of 1,524 millimeters. Electrification exists on the main corridors and larger urban or intercity routes, while many regional and rural lines remain non-electrified. The network is owned, maintained, and developed by public authorities, with the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (Väylävirasto) responsible for infrastructure planning, maintenance, and asset management. Safety, interoperability, and regulatory compliance are overseen by Traficom (the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency) in line with national and European Union rules.

Rail services on the network are operated by licensed train companies, including the VR Group as the historic national operator and additional private or public operators active in passenger and freight transport. The open-access elements of the market, along with subsidies and public policy, influence service levels, pricing, and coverage across regions.

The raideverkosto plays a crucial role in regional development, freight movement, and sustainable mobility, linking major cities and ports with rural areas and neighboring countries. Its evolution continues with modernization efforts, upgrades to signaling and electrification, and initiatives aimed at improving capacity, safety, and interoperability.