Kyiv metro to receive new, modern railcars with support from EBRD

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting the modernisation of Kyiv’s metro system and the continued provision of vital public transport services by lending €150 million to the City of Kyiv, the bank announced on 30 September.

The Bank’s financing will enable the Ukrainian capital to acquire new metro cars, including spare parts and tools, and maintenance and diagnostic equipment for metro operator Kyivski Metropolitan.

The loan is supported by a partial guarantee from Spain and complemented by grant funding from the EBRD’s own internal resources.

“The new metro cars are expected to be up to 25 per cent more energy efficient than the ageing stock they will replace, ensuring greener, safer and more reliable metro services,” the Bank said in a press release. “Kyiv’s metro system is the backbone of the city’s public transport network, and its stations serve as temporary shelters from missile and drone attacks against the city. Maintaining reliable metro services is critical for residents, internally displaced people and the functioning of the city’s economy in wartime.”

In addition to direct financing, the EBRD will work with the city to improve public transport accessibility for people with disabilities, veterans, older passengers and people with young children. The Bank will support an accessibility audit to inform an action plan for developing more inclusive transport infrastructure and services across Kyiv, benefiting 3.2 million people.

The Bank will also support Kyiv Metro’s training programme for drivers of electric trains, in partnership with UN Women’s She Drives initiative. Participants will receive three years of professional training, helping Kyiv Metro to address staff shortages and expand employment opportunities for women.

Find out more

Press release