Kuopio railway yard received a modern signalling system

Mipro Oy renewed the signalling system at Kuopio railway yard to meet the requirements of modern traffic and safety standards. The completed project brings with it an interlocking system that is ETCS-ready, improving traffic flow and control management.

The new signalling system at Kuopio railway yard has now been completed. In 2022, the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency selected Mipro Oy to deliver the new signalling system for Kuopio railway yard through an open procurement process. The now finalised project includes a new ETCS-ready interlocking system which enables both centralised and local control of signals and points.

The modernisation of the railway yard became necessary due to previous capacity and condition issues. Problems were caused by an insufficient number of tracks, outdated safety equipment and deficiencies in point control. In addition, the standing and service tracks at the passenger yard were no longer able to cope with increased demand.

During 2024, the project progressed rapidly, and the system was commissioned as planned in August. At the time of commissioning, the signalling system was handed over for commercial traffic use, after which a trial operation period began, during which the operation of the system was monitored together with the client. During the trial period, planned and agreed changes to the system were made in collaboration with the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, with the latest of these implemented in March 2025. At this point in time, all planned measures have been completed and the system is in its final form. The official acceptance of the project will take place after the successful completion of the trial period, carried out by the client.

“The measures for the renewal of the signalling system and the planned actions have now been completed. The new system is in its final form and will serve the smooth operation of traffic for a long time”, says Project Manager Jouni Vauhkonen from Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency.

The new ETCS-ready signalling system at Kuopio railway yard includes, in addition to centralised and local control, a connection to the centralised Ebiloop train control system as well as an interface to the Radio Block Centre (RBC). This will enable the future implementation of a ETCS-standard train control system in Kuopio. The modernised interlocking system ensures the safety of train operations within the railway yard. The system has been designed with a long life cycle in mind, using readily available components, which will allow cost-effective development and modernisation of the system in the future.

“During the project, as implementation progressed, necessary changes to the original plans were identified. These changes were mainly designed and implemented during the project and integrated into the first commissioned version of the system. The project proceeded smoothly and with excellent cooperation between the supplier, the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, and various stakeholders”, says Mipro’s Project Manager Petri Pyykkönen.

“The Kuopio railway yard signalling system contract project was carried out in close cooperation with the client, and it was a great success as a continuation of a long-standing partnership. This good cooperation has continued since then, for example, in the Digirata Lielahti-Rauma/Pori trackside equipment controller project”, says Mipro’s Account Manager Aki Luostarinen.

Watch a video about the project:

---

Mipro is a specialist company focused on systems for rail transport and industry. Mipro’s systems are used in railway and metro safety management, industrial process safety, and the control of water and energy supply processes. Headquartered in Mikkeli, this growing company operates in global markets. In Finland, its clients include the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, Fintraffic, Helsinki Metropolitan Area Transport Ltd., and numerous water and energy utilities. 

---

Additional Information: