Transport Minister Moritz Leuenberger has estimated the cost of improvements to the nation’s rail infrastructure at CHF 21 billion, saying projects such as public transport maintenance are essential even in difficult financial times.

The Federal Cabinet has developed two proposals for upgrading the railways by the year 2030. One would cost CHF 12 billion, the other CHf 21 billion.

However, Leuenberger says he’s in favor of a third option, which would mean spending even more money. He says there are many demands from the cantons, such as a new line between Lausanne and Geneva. He also says he finds legitimate reason to increase the public debt to develop public transportation.

The Cabinet will pick up the matter again in the spring.