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Category Archives: North Section

M6 Metro Line: lower emissions on the route between Bucharest and Otopeni Airport

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Transport is one of the sectors in which Romania needs to reduce the pressure on the climate and air quality. According to Romania’s Long-Term Strategy for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Government Decision 1215/2023), between 1990 and 2019, emissions from the transport sector rose by 41%, reaching 18,937 kt CO₂ equivalent in 2019, with road transport as the dominant source – representing approximately 96% of the sector’s total.

source: https://sgg.gov.ro/1/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ANEXA-1-21.pdf

Along the DN1 – Otopeni – Bucharest corridor, this reality is evident every day: the link between the capital, the northern region and Henri Coandă International Airport relies heavily on private cars, taxis and other road vehicles. M6 Metro Line changes this equation, offering a fast, predictable public transport alternative with significantly lower operational emissions per passenger.

Car versus metro
We can make a comparison: let’s take as a reference the road distance of approximately 16-17 km between the Gara de Nord area and Henri Coandă / Otopeni International Airport. Our World in Data indicates, based on UK government reporting figures, approximately 170 g CO₂e/km¹ for a petrol-powered car and approximately 35 g CO₂e/passenger-km for domestic rail transport.
For urban light rail and metro systems, the 2024 UK government methodology (DESNZ – GHG Conversion Factors) indicates an average of 26.16 g CO₂e/passenger-km, whilst for the Glasgow Underground the figure is 34.70 g CO₂e/passenger-km. These values are international benchmarks for comparison, not official factors specific to M6 Metro Line or Romania.
Applying these benchmarks to a distance of 16-17 km, a car journey with a single occupant generates approximately 2.7-2.9 kg CO₂e one way, or 5.4-5.8 kg CO₂e for a return trip. For urban electric transport (26-35 g CO₂e per passenger-km), the same journey would generate approximately 0.42-0.60 kg CO₂e one way, or 0.83-1.19 kg CO₂e return.
The difference is significant: for every passenger who chooses the metro instead of a private car, the estimated saving is around 2.1-2.5 kg CO₂e one way, or 4.2-5.0 kg CO₂e for a return journey. Assuming a car with a single occupant, the metro can have a carbon footprint some 5 to 6.5 times smaller per passenger-km, depending on the emission factor used and on how heavily the system is loaded.

The other emissions matter too
CO₂ is not the only relevant pollutant. Road traffic generates nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and particulate matter, PM10 and PM2.5. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA) – Emissions of air pollutants from transport, the pollutants emitted by transport contribute to the deterioration of air quality and put pressure on human health. Although exhaust emissions have dicreased in recent decades, particles from the wear of brakes, tyres and road surfaces remain an important component of the pollution generated by road transport.
The electric metro produces no exhaust emissions along its route. Therefore, for journeys transferred from car or taxi to the metro, M6 Metro Line will help reduce local emissions in the areas it crosses and ease the pressure created by road traffic on the Otopeni – Bucharest corridor. The benefit is not only climatic but also urban: more public transport means more predictable mobility, a more efficient link with the airport and a real alternative for the residents, employees and visitors of the northern area of the capital.

M6 Metro Line is a public utility project of national interest, which provides the link between the metro network and Henri Coandă International Airport and contributes to the development of the trans-European transport network TEN-T. The project is not only an investment in infrastructure, but also an urban mobility measure with direct effects on emissions, air quality and connectivity between Bucharest and the airport.

¹CO₂e/km = carbon dioxide equivalent per kilometre. CO₂e (CO₂ equivalent) is a unit of measurement that includes not only carbon dioxide (CO₂) but also the other greenhouse gases, expressed as CO₂ equivalent. Cars also emit methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), not just CO₂. CO₂e adds them all into a single figure, converting them according to their global warming potential. In practice, for a car the difference from pure CO₂ is small, so when the article says “170 g CO₂e/km”, it can be read as “roughly 170 g of greenhouse gases per km, expressed as CO₂”. Per km means per kilometre travelled, with a single passenger in the car (or per passenger-km for public transport, where the emissions are divided by the number of people in the vehicle).

Sources:
Romania’s Long-Term Strategy (GD 1215/2023) | Our World in Data – Travel Carbon Footprint | UK Gov GHG Conversion Factors 2024 | CNAB – Statistical data 2024 | EEA – GHG emissions from transport | EEA – Pollutants from transport

The Building Permit has been issued for the architectural works, track works, electromechanical and low-voltage installations for M6 Metro Line

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Metrorex announces that the Building Permit has been issued for the “Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)”, covering the architectural works, the trackwork and the electromechanical and low-current installations.

The document marks the next major step in implementing the M6 Metro Line project, one of the most important public transport infrastructure projects in Romania and an integral part of the trans-European transport network TEN-T.

The value of the authorised works, excluding VAT, amounts to 1,037,578,107.47 lei, and the construction period is 31 months, calculated from the date the works actually begin. The works will be carried out by the joint venture SOMET S.A. – SALCEF GROUP – THEDA MAR S.A. – TIAB S.A. – UTI CONSTRUCTION AND FACILITY MANAGEMENT S.A. – ALTIMATE S.A., with SOMET S.A. as joint venture’s leader.

At present, the civil works are on going along the entire length of the future M6 Metro Line alignment. On the SOUTH SECTION, covering the distance between 1 Mai – Tokyo future metro stations, the civil works have reached 66%, while on the NORTH SECTION, the section between Tokyo – Aeroport Otopeni future metro stations, the civil works stand at 32%.

The progress made by the two operational TBMs is as follows:

– TBM “Sfânta Maria” (Line 2): has completed more than 2,819 linear metres of tunnel and installed 1,875 rings;

– TBM “Sfânta Ana” (Line 1): has completed more than 2,122 linear metres of tunnel and installed 1,410 rings.

“Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)” is a public utility project of national interest, in accordance with Government Decision no. 496/2017, contributing to the development of the trans-European transport network. M6 Metro Line is a project for Romania! Follow the official website www.magistrala6.ro for updated information.

Yours sincerely,

DIRECTOR GENERAL,

Mariana MICLĂUȘ

Traffic diversion in Otopeni for the works at the future Bruxelles metro station

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In the context of the works for the future Bruxelles metro station, part of the M6 Metro Line project (1 Mai – Otopeni), new traffic measures will be introduced in the Otopeni area.

For an estimated period of about a year and a half, traffic on Oașului Street will be closed in the area of the future Bruxelles station site. Traffic will be diverted onto a newly built bridge, with two traffic lanes of 3 metres each, which will provide the link with the DN1 through the McDonald’s car park area, on the Oașului Street – DN1 – Otopeni route.

The extension of the site facilities will be carried out without affecting traffic on Șoseaua București–Ploiești (DN1).

At this stage, works will be carried out to relocate the utility networks, including electricity, water, sewerage and district heating. For the safety of pedestrians, a temporary pavement will be provided.

Motorists are asked to drive with caution and to observe the temporary road signs, as well as the instructions of the traffic controllers in the area.

The works are being carried out with the approval of CNAIR and of IGPR – the Road Directorate.

The M6 Metro Line: 1 Mai – Otopeni project is declared a public utility project of national interest, in accordance with Government Decision no. 496/2017. The new metro line will provide the direct link between Gara de Nord and Henri Coandă International Airport Otopeni, contributing to the development of the trans-European transport network and to improved mobility in the Bucharest – Ilfov metropolitan area.

Spring has arrived on the metro: flowers, mărțișoare and good news

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Spring has made itself felt on the Bucharest metro network too. Metrorex representatives welcomed women passengers with flowers and mărțișoare, offering spring greetings and bringing extra colour and joy to the metro stations.

The initiative is part of the tradition of celebrating the arrival of spring and sending good wishes to all passengers.

Passengers arriving at Piața Unirii 1 station can stop for a spring photograph. A special “instagrammable” board has been set up there for the season.

📍 Location: Metrorex Central Control Room, Piața Unirii 1 station, next to the Pupils and Students ticket office.

Metrorex and the M6 project team wish all passengers a beautiful spring and many pleasant journeys by metro. 🌷

International monitoring of progress on M6 Metro Line

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Between 24 and 26 February 2026, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) carried out a new mission in Bucharest to monitor the project co-financed through the ROM-P5 loan agreement for M6 Metro Line.

During the visit, the JICA delegation, led by Ms Hiroko Amano, Deputy Director within the Europe Division of the Department for the Middle East and Europe, held working meetings with representatives of Metrorex, of the Ministry of Finance and of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.

The agenda of the mission also included site visits. The Metrorex team, coordinated by Director General Mariana Miclăuș, presented the status of the works on the sites of the future M6 Metro Line, as well as at the Străulești Depot and at the Metrorex Central Control Centre. During these visits, the progress achieved and the next stages of the project were reviewed.


“Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)” is a public utility objective of national interest, in accordance with Government Decision no. 496/2017, as subsequently amended and supplemented. M6 Metro Line contributes to the development of the trans-European transport network and to increased mobility, by creating a direct connection between the metro network and Henri Coandă International Airport.

Through ongoing collaboration with international partners, the project is advancing towards strengthening modern transport infrastructure and Romanian-Japanese cooperation.

Meeting with JICA to accelerate the project and secure its financing

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As part of the mission of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), on 25 February a working meeting was held at the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, chaired by State Secretary Ionuț Săvoiu and Secretary General Mariana Ioniță, bringing together the Metrorex team and JICA representatives. The agenda covered priority topics in transport and infrastructure, such as:

– accelerating the delivery of the project and securing the necessary budget allocations;

– strengthening safety management in construction;

– financial matters relating to the consultancy services financed through the yen loan.

The dialogue reconfirmed the importance of Romanian–Japanese cooperation and the shared commitment to developing the
BUCHAREST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAIL ACCESS LINK PROJECT (METRO LINE 6. 1 MAI – OTOPENI).

Traffic diversion in the area of the future Bruxelles Station

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Temporary traffic diversion in the area of the junction between the DN1 and the Bucharest Ring Road, at the future BRUXELLES metro station

From 21 January, traffic on the Ring Road → DN1 access slip road is diverted along the same route (as shown in the image), onto an adjacent temporary road built for the purpose, with one lane in each direction, which maintains the connection with the DN.

The temporary road is fully signposted and allows safe access towards the DNCB.

Motorists are asked to proceed with care and to pay attention to the temporary road signs.

The works are being carried out on the basis of the approval issued by the competent institutions, valid until 31 March 2026.

🟢 “Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)” is a public utility project of national interest, in accordance with Government Decision no. 496/2017.

The new metro line will provide the direct link between Gara de Nord and Otopeni International Airport, contributing to the development of the trans-European transport network.

🇷🇴 M6 Metro Line is a project for Romania!

Notice regarding restrictions on bus access to the Departures Terminal at Henri Coandă International Airport

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Metrorex has announced that, from 8 December 2025, bus access to the Departures Terminal at Henri Coandă International Airport in Otopeni will be temporarily restricted. This measure is necessary to facilitate construction works for the future Aeroport Otopeni metro station, part of the ‘Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)’.

To ensure a safe working area, the following measures shall be implemented:

• The car park for coaches and minibuses, situated at the base of the control tower (opposite the Departures Terminal), will be closed.

• Buses will no longer be allowed to stop or park in the vicinity of the Departures Terminal.

• To ensure the continuity of transport services and passenger safety, coaches and minibuses will exclusively use the ‘Arrivals’ Terminal drop-off point, in accordance with the traffic plan agreed with the Bucharest National Airports Company.

Access will be properly signposted, and authorised personnel will support vehicle guidance throughout the implementation period.

The diversion is carried out based on CNAB Agreement no. AB-DIPS 1458/18.09.2025, concerning the reorganisation of airport traffic flows during construction works.

For the safety of all traffic participants, Metrorex advises passengers to allow extra time for their journeys, given the temporary changes to traffic flows.

“Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)” is a public-utility project of national interest, according to Government Decision no. 496/2017. The new metro line will provide a fast and direct connection between Gara de Nord and Henri Coandă International Airport, contributing to the development of the trans-European transport network.

For ongoing updates on construction progress and temporary traffic restrictions, please follow www.magistrala6.ro

Temporary traffic restrictions on the DN1, at the future PARIS metro station, M6 Metro Line

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Metrorex has announced the introduction of temporary traffic restrictions on National Road 1 (DN1), in the area of the junction with Padina Street, to allow work to be carried out on the future PARIS metro station, part of the project “Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)”.

From 24 November 2025:

  • Traffic on the Ploiești–Bucharest direction will be restricted to two lanes;
  • Three lanes will remain open on the Bucharest–Ploiești direction;
  • Additional temporary restrictions may occur on both directions over the weekend.

Motorists are asked to proceed with care and to pay attention to the temporary road signs.

The works are being carried out with the approval of CNAIR – SDN Bucharest, issued with the agreement of DRDP Bucharest, CTC PMB and the Bucharest Traffic Police Brigade. The approval is issued until 31 December 2025, and both the approval and the associated traffic restrictions will be extended in successive stages, depending on the progress of the works.

“Bucharest International Airport Rail Access Link Project (Metro Line 6. 1 Mai – Otopeni)” is a public utility project of national interest, in accordance with Government Decision no. 496/2017.

The new metro line will provide the direct link between Gara de Nord and Otopeni International Airport, contributing to the development of the trans-European transport network.

M6 Metro Line 6 is a project for Romania!

Celebrating 46 Years of the Bucharest metro

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November 19 is an anniversary day for Metrorex S.A., the company that operates the Bucharest metro, the efficient public transportation system serving Romania’s capital.

This year marks 46 years since the Bucharest metro opened its doors to journeys through the city’s underground public transportation network, which is constantly being expanded and improved.

How else could a transport company that has served people for almost half a century celebrate this anniversary, if not together with its passengers?

Mariana Miclăuș, General Director of Metrorex, sends a message to everyone who brings the Bucharest metro to life:

“The metro is more than a transport solution – it is a living organism, built by people for people.

Every train that leaves a station, every passenger who reaches their destination and every day on which the network runs safely are the result of responsible and dedicated work.

I would like to thank all my colleagues for their professionalism. Each of them has an essential role, and every contribution counts.

I would like to thank our loyal passengers, who give us their trust day after day, and our partners, who support us in developing and maintaining a fast, safe and efficient transport service.

I would like to thank the enthusiasts, the eager, the children and the families who visited our Central Control Center. Your presence has shown us that the metro remains an important part of city life.

For me, the metro is home. I have spent my entire career here and I have grown, professionally and as a person, alongside extraordinary people.

We will continue to modernise, to develop and to offer our passengers safety, comfort and confidence.

Happy anniversary, Metrorex!”

On November 16, Metrorex held an Open Day at the Metrorex Central Control Center – the place where train movements and the entire flow of the metro network are coordinated in real time. To the delight of Metrorex representatives, hundreds of loyal passengers, enthusiasts and curious visitors passed the threshold of this special space and showed their joy. Metrorex staff were pleasantly surprised by the enormous public interest in discovering what goes on behind the scenes of the metro and in better understanding the everyday work behind every safe journey.

The company’s General Director, Mariana Miclăuș, welcomed those who were seeing for the first time the place from which the capital’s entire metro network is coordinated. The emotion, the smiles and the surprise shown by the guests offered positive energy to Metrorex staff, confirming once again that every effort is justified when you work and build for people.

M6 Metro Line is one of the recent achievements currently under construction, and will provide, along a route of 14.2 km of double track, the direct link from Gara de Nord to Henri Coandă International Airport in Otopeni. At this anniversary moment, the future line has reached over 52% completion of the structural works on the SOUTH Section, the 1 Mai – Tokyo stretch, and over 34% on the NORTH Section, the Tokyo – Aeroport Otopeni stretch.

M6 Metro Line will be connected to the existing metro network operated by Metrorex S.A., to the metropolitan surface transport network and to the national rail and air transport networks. The 12 stations of the new line are being built in key areas of interest between the current 1 Mai station and Otopeni Airport. The main areas the new line will serve are: 1 Mai, Romexpo, Gara de Nord and Băneasa Airport, the residential, retail and business areas along the DN1 between Bucharest and Otopeni, the town of Otopeni and the arrivals and departures terminals of Otopeni International Airport.

At the metro station on the ring road (Bruxelles), the project provides for a “Park & Ride” car park with approximately 500 spaces, where drivers will be able to leave their cars and continue their journey by metro.

M6 Metro Line, on which 12 new trains will run, contributes to the expansion of the existing safe, environmentally friendly and modern transport network, which will improve mobility for the population of the Bucharest metropolitan area and of the town of Otopeni. It is the first fast, direct link between Gara de Nord and Otopeni Airport, integrating regional air, rail and road transport flows.

Beyond these benefits, M6 Metro Line contributes to the development of the suburban areas and supports the promotion of the residential, retail, business and leisure areas between Băneasa and Otopeni. A fast, convenient and safe transport solution for locals and tourists alike, the future metro line will provide a mobility corridor between the two airports and the city centre, will reduce road traffic and will bring improved environmental conditions, along with lower noise, pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The future M6 Metro Line is further proof of how Metrorex takes on its mission towards people and towards Bucharest, a European capital. And that is what makes 46 years of the metro in Bucharest an anniversary to be celebrated together with the travelling public.

Happy anniversary to all our passengers!