Work Detail |
PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PKP PLK) has begun preparations for the modernisation of the final section of the 170 km Warsaw–Lublin railway line, between Warsaw Wawer and Otwock. The winner of the tender for this section will be announced shortly. The project is expected to be completed in 2028. In October 2024, PKP PLK launched a tender for the modernisation and expansion of the Warsaw Wawer–Otwock section, for which seven bids were submitted. After evaluating the bids, PKP PLK will select the most advantageous offer, and, following the completion of formalities, a contract will be signed. Major construction works are scheduled to begin in September 2025. During the first six months, no significant disruptions to train services are anticipated. During this period, temporary platforms will be constructed at Warsaw Wawer and Warsaw Falenica stations, along with switch crossings in Miedzylesie. Ahead of the main construction phase, PKP PLK will carry out preparatory works, including the demolition of buildings at several locations in Falenica, approximately 18 km south-east of central Warsaw. At these locations, two of four planned grade-separated intersections will be built, improving transport safety and traffic flow for residents. In addition to smaller preparatory works, the area is being readied for the construction of an additional track. Undertaking these tasks in advance of the main works is expected to reduce the overall project duration. The preparatory works contract, valued at PLN 20 million (EUR 4.7 million), is being executed by Trakcja and Racy. The scope of work also includes the construction of a traction substation and an underground seepage tank. The substation will supply electricity for train operations on four tracks – two newly built tracks for Line no. 506 and two reconstructed tracks for Line no. 7. On the Warsaw Wawer–Otwock section, long-distance services will be separated from suburban and metropolitan train traffic. PKP PLK plans to eliminate four level crossings, replacing them with three road tunnels in Radosc, Falenica, and Józefów, as well as a road viaduct on the border between Warsaw and Józefów. As part of the project, eight stations will be rebuilt and equipped with modern passenger information systems. Plans also include the construction of 20 new underpasses and the reconstruction of the existing underpass at Warszawa Falenica station. The project will also involve renovation of the existing railway bridges over the Swider River, as well as the construction of two new bridges along Line no. 506. Acoustic barriers covered with greenery will be installed along the route. The modernisation of the Warsaw Wawer–Otwock section represents the final phase of upgrading the Otwock line. As part of the completed works on the Warszawa Wschodnia–Warszawa Wawer section, three stations have been rebuilt, and a new stop – Warszawa Grochów – has been constructed. On the Warszawa Wschodnia–Warszawa Wawer stretch, suburban services have been separated from long-distance traffic thanks to the construction of two additional tracks between Warszawa Goclawek and Warszawa Wawer. To improve accessibility, five underground pedestrian crossings have been constructed, and the existing underpass at Warszawa Wawer station has been thoroughly rebuilt. All the underground facilities have been equipped with stairs, ramps, or lifts. Additionally, two safe crossings over the tracks leading to the Olszynka Grochowska Nature Reserve have been built. At the Warszawa Olszynka Grochowska stop, the old footbridge has been replaced with a new one featuring stairs and lifts, significantly improving accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. The modernisation of the Warsaw–Lublin railway line will increase capacity, with trains operating on four tracks between Warsaw Wawer and Otwock, thereby reducing journey times. The project is seeking European co-financing through the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment (FEnIKS) programme. A total of EUR 24.2 billion is allocated under this programme, supporting initiatives such as low-carbon economic development, road and railway infrastructure, environmental and health protection, and cultural projects. Rail schemes supported by FEnIKS include modernisation of existing lines and the construction of new lines and sections, all aimed at increasing capacity and improving connectivity to encourage a modal shift from road to rail. |