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Oleg Belozerov: “Preparations for the XXIX World Winter Universiade in Krasnoyarsk are on the home stretch”

The readiness of the railway infrastructure for transport services for participants and guests of the XXIX World Winter Universiade in Krasnoyarsk was discussed at the Company’s headquarters in Moscow. Oleg Belozerov, the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Russian Railways, led the discussion.

"In a month’s time, Russia will host a world-class sporting event here in Krasnoyarsk. More than 200,000 visitors are expected to attend the Universiade. Preparations of the Company’s passenger facilities are now on the home stretch. A lot of work has been done and the key task now is to ensure the highest levels of service, hospitality and security and to create a good mood and festive atmosphere for all the visitors, fans and passengers," said Oleg Belozerov.

At present, the Krasnoyarsk railway station is ready to receive visitors. Security and passenger services have been upgraded to reflect new standards and IT technologies. Apps such as Smart Station, Electronic Queue, and a Smart Information System have been introduced. The station’s security system now includes 4 inspection zones and 437 video cameras linked to a single transport security point. New lifts, ramps, lifting gear and rest rooms have been installed and passengers with limited mobility provided with an accessible environment. The station’s building facade has been fitted with 650 lighting fixtures.

A new pavilion at Abakan railway station, a reserve station for the Universiade, will soon be commissioned. Abakan station is also being built in accordance with modern requirements regarding comfort, safety and accessibility.

A special role in providing transport support to the Universiade will be played by the City Metro, which will carry Krasnoyarsk’s residents and visitors during the student games and bring them to their destination comfortably and quickly. In developing this project, Russian Railways has built 7 new stations within Krasnoyarsk, including three in 2018. Among them are the Bobrovy Log (Beaver Log) and Tikhy Zori (Silent Dawn), which are located next to key sports facilities. The Company has also updated 15 platforms and two stations, at Yenisei and Zlobino.

In cooperation with the Universiade’s Directorate, a special timetable for electric trains has been drawn up. Krasnoyarsk’s residents, visitors and fans will have about 160 services, including 21 additional daily trains connecting the sports facilities.

Russian Railways has also supplied Krasnoyarsk with 6 new EP3D electric trains which are now undergoing tests.

In total, 23 pairs of long-distance trains and 79 pairs of suburban trains will be providing transport support to the Universiade.