Ukrzaliznytsia postpones the write-off of freight cars for a decade: what does this mean?

"Ukrzaliznytsia" made changes to the operation schedule of more than 14,400 freight cars, postponing their mass write-off to later dates - from 2024-2028 to 2030-2035. This was reported by the industry publication Rail.insider.

The decision to postpone the scrapping of wagons was made after the publication of changes to the order of the Ministry of Community Development, Territories and Infrastructure No. 647 "On approval of the Procedure for conducting a complex of diagnostic, repair and registration operations..." in January 2024.

The amended document states that the terms of extending the service life of freight cars remain valid in accordance with the technical decisions issued before this order came into effect.

Such a step will keep these cars in working condition for several more decades, which is important for maintaining the efficiency of freight transportation on the railways.

This decision can also play a positive role in preserving jobs in the freight industry and contribute to maintaining stability in the rail transport market.

In addition, postponing the scrapping of wagons will allow to reduce financial and technical costs for their replacement in the near future, which is an important aspect for the company's cost management.