The Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIDR) states that it has a clear vision for the development of the railway sector, with short-term priorities focused on the immediate recovery of the economic situation. Additionally, salary payments remain a top priority for the current management of the Moldovan Railways enterprise. “We understand the hardships railway workers are facing today,” said Mircea Pascaluta, Secretary of State for Transport at MIDR, in a video message, reports IPN.

According to him, the railway must be attractive for both freight and passenger transport. In this regard, external funds have been secured to rehabilitate the railway infrastructure.

"We must create an economically sustainable enterprise. Therefore, in the coming years, the entire core railway line will be rehabilitated, which means higher travel speeds and increased attractiveness of the railway. In the short term, our priorities are focused on the immediate recovery of the economic situation," stated Mircea Pascaluta.

The Secretary of State mentioned that efforts are being made to optimize railway expenses. Last year, the enterprise managed to reduce costs by 100 million lei. Non-operational assets will be liquidated, and non-operational expenses will be eliminated.

"We will digitize and streamline several processes to make the railway economically sustainable. Our strategic vision and immediate actions will help transform the railway into an economically independent enterprise," added the Secretary of State.

On Friday, February 14, employees of the Moldovan Railways, organized by the Railway Workers' Trade Union Federation, took to the streets to demand their overdue salaries, which have been unpaid for 5-6 months. In addition to wage arrears, the workers are also complaining about low salaries, stating that they are "the lowest in the public sector".