17.04.2026
Regional Councils of Eastern and Northern Finland call for securing the availability and service level of passenger train services
The regions of Eastern and Northern Finland are concerned about the tendering of passenger train services prepared by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom from 2031 onwards. The planned changes threaten to weaken the service level, fluency and attractiveness of rail travel, especially in Eastern and Northern Finland.
In particular, the position is opposed to mandatory long-distance train changes in Kuopio and Oulu, as well as weakening the service level with regard to the train fleet used in purchasing traffic. The regional councils emphasise that EU regulation enables a more effective solution: Purchasing services should include larger entities where market-based connections also cover the costs of less profitable services. This will ensure an equal level of service throughout the country, avoid train changes that weaken travel, and support the vitality of Eastern and Northern Finland as well as sustainable mobility for both residents and tourists.
Further information:
Hannu Takkula, Regional Director, tel. +358 400 203 300, hannu.takkula@lapinliitto.fi
Jussi Rämet, Regional Director, tel. +358 40 586 3877, jussi.ramet@pohjois-pohjanmaa.fi
