Green light for Pinzgauer Lokalbahn: Federal government funds transition to electric trains with Minister of Mobility Hanke: "Pinzgau is getting a modern, quiet and environmentally friendly railway"

With approximately 53 kilometres of narrow-gauge track, an hourly service and more than 2,750 passengers per day, the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn between Zell am See and Krimml is one of the most important transport connections in Salzburg. 

Following the severe flood events in 2021, the reconstruction financed by the federal government and the state of Salzburg is currently underway in Mittersill.

The Lokalbahn is now also set to transition to electric operation. With the dual budget 2027/2028, the federal government has significantly increased the medium-term investment programme for private railways (MIP): As of 2027, an additional 25 million euros annually will be made available by the federal government for private railway infrastructure, in addition to regular funds. This increases the total budget to around 114 million euros. With the increase, the infrastructure modernisations necessary for electric operation can be implemented. The federal government also guarantees partial co-financing for Salzburg in the procurement of the new electrically operated vehicles, thus enabling the imminent start of the procurement process. 

Federal Minister Peter Hanke considers this proof that investment in rural areas pays off even in challenging budgetary times: "We have succeeded in noticeably increasing the investment programme for private railways despite significant pressure to save. Projects for which the states also guarantee their contribution benefit from this. With a federal share in vehicle procurement, we create the prerequisite for launching the procurement process soon. It is clear to me: Those living, commuting, or vacationing in Pinzgau have the same title to a reliable and contemporary railway as urban residents. This is the very essence of basic public service." 

A lifeline for commuters and day trippers 

"The Pinzgauer Lokalbahn is an indispensable part of mobility in the state of Salzburg. It stands for quality of life and regional, sustainable value creation. This assurance from the federal is a clear commitment to strengthening mobility in rural areas and to a reliable connection for the people of Pinzgau. Together, we create the conditions that ensure the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn remains a modern, environmentally friendly, and reliable mobility offer for commuters, schoolchildren, and our guests in the future," emphasises Governor Karoline Edtstadler. 
"The Pinzgauer Lokalbahn is far more than a railway line – it is a lifeline, mobility guarantee, and an important piece of regional identity for the entire Upper Pinzgau. Through the current funding involvement of the federal government in electrification and vehicle procurement, the long-term future of the PLB has been secured. At the same time, it is an important step towards passenger comfort and sustainability. I would like to gratefully acknowledge Federal Minister Hanke for the constructive discussions during intensive negotiations," underscores Vice Governor Stefan Schnöll the importance of the present decision. 

The railway connects Zell am See station – with direct connection to the Giselabahn (Salzburg-Tiroler-Bahn) – along the Salzach through Mittersill to Krimml. The railway serves two vital functions: For the valley inhabitants, it is an indispensable backbone of the commuter traffic, and for the region as a whole, it is a central connection to the high mountain world of the Salzburg Pinzgau. With electric instead of fossil fuel-operated propulsion, this offering becomes quieter, emission-free, and in the long run also more stable in operation.

Investments with leverage effect on the region

The plan also impacts the regional economy: creating orders for the railway and infrastructure industry over several years, as well as jobs both locally and in the overall domestic business landscape.

For Pinzgau, with the Hohe Tauern National Park and the Krimml Waterfalls being one of the core tourist regions of Salzburg, a modern Lokalbahn is more than just transport infrastructure: it is a locational advantage and a visible sign that public mobility will play a significant role in Upper Pinzgau in the long term.