Every workday during rush hours, hundreds of people board and exit the old blue Soviet-era BG Voz trains at Novi Beograd and Tošin Bunar stations—except when the trains “exceptionally do not operate”, which happens quite often. The arrival of high temperatures brings new challenges for passengers, raising the question of why the city’s fastest public transport remains so neglected, and when Belgraders can expect a dignified ride on BG Voz trains.
European travelers pay a lot to experience journeys on unusual vintage trains, yet Belgraders only have this experience — and it’s seemingly free, even though BG Voz consumes about a quarter of the city’s public transport budget.
Citizens endure irregular departures, overcrowded cars, poor hygiene, and lack of oxygen because, despite its condition and being nearly 45 years old, the BG Voz remains the fastest and most efficient way to travel in a city crippled by traffic congestion and a shortage of parking.
Traffic engineer Ivan Banković explains that BG Voz’s poor condition is due to unreliability and frequent train breakdowns. The city’s railway system is neglected, despite its importance.
Authorities promised improvements, with the first signs expected by 2027 when a new railway line to Surčin and the National Stadium will open, operated by nine new Chinese trains already contracted. This line may eventually extend to Obrenovac, finally connecting Obrenovac directly to central Belgrade by train.
Ambitious plans have been delayed for decades. In 2021, official statements predicted that by 2030, BG Voz would have two new lines and first metro lines, making rail the main mode of public transport, with buses only supplementary.
Nikola Jovanović from the Center for Local Self-Government notes these projects should have happened decades ago. For example, the railway to Karaburma was planned as early as 1972 but was never completed.
The ongoing war in Ukraine and geopolitical tensions have stalled projects. BG Voz currently has two city and two suburban lines, but frequency is low, and old trains remain in use until at least late 2026, when new Chinese trains are expected on the Surčin line.
Experts agree that buying new trains alone won’t fix the system, as infrastructure limits capacity and integration with other rail services is needed. A broader strategy is necessary, including extending service to currently disconnected areas like Mladenovac.
Despite the delays, a new urban project for the Karaburma BG Voz station and related infrastructure was unveiled earlier this year, aiming to improve connectivity with the metro and expand rail services.
No clear timeline or funding details for construction have been provided yet.
In summary, while BG Voz remains vital, its upgrade depends on long-term strategic planning, significant investment, and overcoming political and geopolitical challenges.
