The Ukrainian Railways public joint-stock company (Ukrzaliznytsia) has built 1,477 gondola cars at its own manufacturing facilities since January, thus achieving 50% of the target for 2017. As reported, Ukrzaliznytsia planned to manufacture 3,000 gondola cars in 2017.
In particular, according to Ukrzaliznytsia, 547 gondola cars were produced at the Darnytskyi railcar repair plant (Kyiv), 742 at the Paniutynskyi railcar repair plant (Kharkiv region), and 188 at the Stryi railcar plant.
The Paniutynskyi railcar repair plant also built two pellet carriers for its own needs and the Liski Transport Service Center (a division of Ukrzaliznytsia) bought 48 container flatcars.
According to Ukrzaliznytsia, the Darnytskyi railcar repair plant has invited tenders for supply of 2,500 gondola cars for UAH 2.5 billion (excluding VAT). These gondola cars are expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2017 and the first quarter of 2018.
In addition, preparations to obtain a loan of USD 150 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for purchase of 6,000-7,000 gondola cars with delivery in 2018 (tender procedures will be monitored by the EBRD) are continuing.