The construction of the first phase of the Rail Baltica railway project in Latvia may be delayed by three to five years. This was stated in an interview with Latvian Television (LTV) in the program Rīta panorāma by the chairman of the national project implementer - the company Eiropas dzelzceļa līnijas (EDzL) - Māris Dzelme.
According to him, the first phase of Rail Baltica will be revised and redesigned - both for technical reasons and to reduce costs. Instead of two tracks on the main line, only one is planned to be built, with maneuvering sections along the route.
In addition, the creation of several stations is anticipated. Dzelme noted that, in his opinion, there will be four. However, when asked by the host where exactly they will be located, the head of EDzL replied:
"I can’t name them off the top of my head."
As specified by the portal nra.lv, these refer to the stations in Salacgrīva, Skulte, Salaspils, and Bauska.
"How can you manage a project and not know the basics?"
This moment sparked a furious reaction on social media. Users of the platform X (formerly Twitter) accused the project management of unprofessionalism and being out of touch with reality.
Commentators sarcastically noted that the chairman could not answer a question that seems fundamental for someone responsible for one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country.
"Brilliant competence: can’t name four stations," wrote one user.
Others added that it seems the leaders of Rail Baltica remember salary figures better than the details of the route they oversee.
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