In 2023, rail transport generated total costs of CHF 14.2 billion, of which a relatively large share (42%, CHF 6.0 billion) was devoted to infrastructure. Running, maintenance and replacement of means of transport accounted for another large portion (40%) of the costs. Environmental and health costs made up 16% of the total, while accident costs accounted for 2%. Accident costs are particularly low in rail transport, as it is by far the safest means of land transport.
Alongside transport users themselves, the state plays an important part in the funding of rail transport. In 2023, the Confederation, cantons and communes covered around CHF 5.8 billion of the total costs (41%), for example by funding infrastructure projects and compensating operators for running public obligation services.
