First railways in the territory of Latvia were built in the 19th century, when they were administrated by private companies. In 1860 on the line St.Petersbourg-Warsaw 08.11.60 section Ritupe-Daugavpils was opened, then in 1862. Daugavpils-Zemgale (206 km). Constructed and exploited by Principal Russian rail society, from the 1894 - by the State. Also in 1861. Line Riga-Daugavpils (218 km); Constructed and exploited by Riga-Dinaburg rail society, from the 1894 - by the State.
Over the years railway reached its zenith, technologic improvements, development and change of traction resources.
At Estonia the first railway was opened in 1870, between Paldiski - Tallinn - Narva - Gatchina, connecting with the St. Petersburg - Warsaw railways. In 1931 the Tartu-Petseri broad gauge railway was completed, linking the Estonian ports with the interior of Russia and Ukraine. …
