ESC, FERRMED, IRU, MCrit, and UIRR are launching a Stakeholders’ Alliance to implement the Fast, Flexible, Integrated Rail-Road System of Transport (+FIRRST System) in order to solve the stagnant rail freight share in the EU.
The objectives of the Alliance are:
A. To facilitate collaboration and communication among stakeholders.
B. To involve the stakeholders in the realisation of the +FIRRST Pilot test. In this regard, three sorts of stakeholder are envisaged: Promoters, Implementers, and Supporters. The promoters, together with the implementers and main supporters, will:
- Produce a detailed definition of the +FIRRST Pilot test (operation, software, infrastructure, rolling stock, etc.).
- Create a detailed, 3-phase implementation plan:
– 1st phase a) Removing cross-border barriers. b) Implementing +FIRRST using selected existing intermodal terminals.
– 2nd phase. Implementing +FIRRST using selected existing intermodal terminals and additional+FIRRST terminals built in abandoned or semi-abandoned marshalling yards.
- Identify sources of funding.
- Specify actions of the parties involved in the +FIRRST Pilot Test development and implementation.
For more information, please see FERRMED Newsletter May 2025.