The European Commission adopted three major Cohesion Policy projects which will make it possible to invest 604 million euros in modernising the Polish rail network.

Over 487 million will be invested in replacing the outdated technology and set up a modern communication system along almost 14,000 kilometer of railway line throughout the country. This project will allow Poland to move towards introducing the European Rail Traffic Management System, which will integrate Polish rail lines with the European railway network.

Communication system

Aligning Poland’s rail communication systems will avoid having to switch locomotives or onboard equipment at border crossings to other countries. The expectation is it will make rail transport more cost-efficient and faster. The project is expected to be completed in July 2023.

A second investment of more than 117 million euros will go to the upgrade of Silesia’s railway services. This project includes upgrading and electrifying 46 kilometer of railway lines, building or refurbishing stations, platforms, viaducts and bridges in northern Silesia. It will also make platforms accessible for people with reduced mobility and build a new International Airport station at Pyrzowice, which serves the regional capital of Katowice.

Poland is the biggest beneficiary of the Cohesion Policy funds. These funds aims to reduce economic and social disparities and to promote sustainable development throughout Europe.