GE Transportation has secured two contracts from Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), which feature combined value of more than $900m.

GE will deliver 300 shunter locomotives as part of the deals, as well as be responsible for the maintenance of 175 passenger trains for an 18-year period.

The contracted deliveries are scheduled for completion over the next ten years.

Stadler has secured a $647.9m contract from Poland-based rail operator Koleje Mazowieckie for the supply of 71 FLIRT EMU trains.

"Stadler has secured a $647.9m contract from Poland-based rail operator Koleje Mazowieckie for the supply of 71 FLIRT EMU trains."

The vehicles will feature advanced technologies such as Wi-Fi capabilities and visual / audible passenger information systems, as well as contemporary door designs.

The new trains are scheduled to enter service in 2020.

Great Western Railway has awarded a £40m ($57m) deal to Hochtief for the construction of a new rail maintenance depot in Exeter.

The depot is intended to offer support to train operators in the area.

It will also enable rail companies to accommodate more trainsets, allowing them to increase the frequency of services in the region.

Coleman Rail and its co-venturer partners Lendlease and SMEC Australia have entered an A$551.7m ($440m) contract with the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority (MMRA) for upgrade works along the Ballarat rail line in Victoria.

The consortium is set to duplicate the line between Deer Park West and Melton to enable bi-directional train movement as part of the arrangement.

The upgrade project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2019.