The construction of the double track between Kokkola and Ylivieska will significantly improve the passenger and freight traffic capacity of the busy railway section. With the introduction of the double track, the maximum speed for passenger trains can be raised to 160-200 km/h and the maximum axle load for freight trains can be raised to 25 tonnes when travelling at the speed of 80-100 km/h.

In respect of the freight traffic, the traffic flow on the track between Seinäjoki and Oulu may be increased in the future by the mining projects (e.g. Talvivaara), centralization of the wood and paper industries and the increased number of express goods trains.

The set objectives of the double track

• Increase in freight traffic, whereby freight traffic will move to the railways

• Significant reduction in sensitivity to disturbances in freight and passenger traffic

• Shortening the journey times in northern Finland as a result of raising the maximum speed

• Improved competitiveness of freight traffic as a result of raising the maximum axle load to 25 tonnes when travelling at the speed of 80-100 km/h

• Improved safety as a result of the elimination of level crossings

Presently the maximum speed on the Kokkola-Ylivieska railway section is 140 km/h in passenger traffic. The maximum axle load in freight traffic is 22.5 tonnes.