| Work Detail |
PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PKP PLK), the Polish national railway infrastructure manager, has initiated a significant tender for comprehensive works on the Kraków – Tunel rail section, a crucial segment connecting Kraków, the capital of the Malopolska region, with Kielce and Warsaw via the mainline No. 8. This ambitious project is set to modernise and upgrade the railway infrastructure in this strategic area, which plays a vital role in facilitating both passenger and freight transport between key cities in Poland. The scope of the project encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at improving both the operational efficiency and passenger experience along this busy railway corridor. Among the main tasks are the modernisation and construction of new railway platforms, the replacement of old tracks, the renovation of the traction network, and the installation of new, advanced signalling and traffic control systems. These upgrades are expected to improve the safety, reliability, and capacity of the railway line. As part of the extensive works, PKP PLK will replace critical sections of tracks and switches, enhancing the quality and safety of the railway infrastructure. The project also includes the improvement of the railway surface, which will allow for smoother and more efficient train travel. Additionally, six rail-road crossings will be modernised, and elements of the traction network will be rebuilt to ensure consistent and reliable power supply to the trains. “Work on railway line No. 8 will allow us to improve the safety and reliability of everyday travel. We will increase the capacity of this section and prepare it for the expected development of the agglomeration railway,” said Andrzej Lipski, director of the Railway Lines Plant in Kraków. This statement highlights the project’s importance not only in terms of enhancing transport infrastructure but also in catering to the growing demand for urban and suburban rail connections in the region. In addition to the rail network upgrades, significant changes are planned for the passenger infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of travelers. The project will see the construction of a new platform at Miechów station, as well as the modernization and raising of existing platforms at the Smroków stop and the Batowice station in Kraków. PKP PLK is also exploring the possibility of constructing an additional platform at the Zastów stop and extending the footbridge over the tracks, which could be implemented as part of an optional extension of the project. The new and modernized platforms will be designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that people with limited mobility can easily use them. Features such as modern shelters, benches, and information boards will be included to enhance passenger comfort. Furthermore, the lighting at all stations and stops will be replaced with energy-efficient LED technology, reducing energy consumption while improving visibility and safety for travelers. One of the key goals of the modernisation project is to increase the capacity of the Kraków – Tunel rail section, which will significantly improve the frequency and efficiency of train services. The upgrade will enable trains to operate at speeds of up to 120 km/h, leading to shorter travel times and facilitating faster movement of both passenger and freight trains. This enhancement is expected to boost the overall competitiveness and sustainability of rail transport in the region. This project is part of a broader set of investments aimed at improving Poland’s railway network. PKP PLK has already made progress on modernising the railway line No. 8. In 2024, the company began upgrading the train traffic control system, installing new devices, and replacing cables and optical fibers. These improvements will allow for remote management of train traffic from the Kraków Batowice station to Miechów, Slomniki, Niedzwiedz, and Zastów stations. The modernisation of these devices and the introduction of a new control system will enhance the efficiency of traffic management, reduce delays, and increase the reliability of the railway line. The modernisation of the Kraków – Tunel rail section is being carried out as part of the National Reconstruction and Increased Resilience Plan. This plan supports a range of projects that PKP PLK is implementing, which are designed to have a positive long-term impact on Poland’s rail transport infrastructure. These efforts aim to improve the overall performance of the rail network, reduce the risk of failures, and enhance safety on key sections of important passenger and freight rail lines across the country. Overall, the Kraków – Tunel rail section upgrade represents a major step toward modernising Poland’s rail infrastructure and improving both the safety and efficiency of its transport system. It will not only meet the growing demand for passenger services but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the national railway network. |
