New investment into the rail network in the Mazowieckie region of Poland is improving the comfort and energy efficiency of trains, as well as making rail a more attractive and environmentally-friendly mode of transport.
- 22 December 2014
This initiative centres on the modernisation of 77 electric multiple train units (EMUs) - self-propelled carriages which do not need a separate locomotive. Quieter than locomotive-drawn trains, EMUs can operate later at night and more frequently without disturbance to those living near rail lines.
The newly-upgraded EMUs, popular due to their speed and pollution-free operation, are now running on electrified sections of track in the Warsaw metropolitan municipality and neighbouring areas.
Better comfort, better services
The new-look EMUs now comprise modernised brake and control/diagnostic systems, as well as upgraded front couplers, modernised compartments, and new facilities for disabled passengers. The modernisation programme will increase the maximum speed (from 110 km/h to 120 km/h) for 39 of the 77 EMUs. Upgrades to the network also include acoustic and visual information boards, door opening systems and new ticket machines and validators.
The main objective of the project has been to improve reliability, safety and comfort of regional rail services, thereby increasing the attractiveness of rail as an environment-friendly mode of transport in the Mazowieckie region. The modernised train units are expected to extend the lifespan of existing rolling stock by some 25 years.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project "Modernisation of Electric Multiple Units used in passenger transport in the Warsaw agglomeration and its region" is EUR 46 625 108, of which the EU´s Cohesion Fund is contributing EUR 37 300 086 from the Operational Programme "Infrastructure and Environment" for the 2007 to 2013 programming period. Work falls under the priority axis "Environment-friendly Transport”.