The 100-millionth passenger travelled today on the Zgorzelec–Wrocław Główny train. On this occasion, the interior of the vehicle was specially decorated, and passengers were given double vouchers for weekend tickets.
– Koleje Dolnośląskie consistently strive to improve the quality of their services. Investments in infrastructure, vehicles and staff training have delivered the expected results, as confirmed by the milestone of 100 million passengers. The operator focuses on development, safety and convenience; we invest in modern rolling stock and bring forgotten railway lines back to life. This is our way of combating transport exclusion – says Cezary Przybylski, Marshal of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship.
– Such a large number of passengers shows that the railway remains popular and that interest in rail travel continues to grow. This does not mean, however, that we will rest on our laurels. Both the Voivodeship Board and Koleje Dolnośląskie are making every effort, investing in modern rolling stock and revitalising further railway lines so that passengers can travel freely, safely and comfortably by rail throughout Lower Silesia – says Tymoteusz Myrda, Member of the Board of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship.
Lower Silesians choose rail
KD trains carried more than 16 million passengers in Lower Silesia last year alone, and the priority of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship government is to systematically develop the rail offer for the region’s residents. Nearly PLN 300 million has been allocated for this purpose this year alone, almost three times the amount designated for it just a few years ago.
– This day would not have been possible without good cooperation between the voivodeship government and the Polish government. For lines taken over from PKP, we subsequently obtain government funding, as for the line through Mysłakowice to Karpacz under the Polish Deal programme. We want to revitalise as many lines as possible and, together with the Polish government, eliminate transport exclusion in Lower Silesia – adds Deputy Marshal Grzegorza Macko.
Modern Koleje Dolnośląskie trains are equipped with conveniences such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi and multimedia information systems, which are appreciated by passengers themselves. The trains are low-floor and adapted to the needs of all passengers.
– I have an appeal to Prime Minister Morawiecki: urge PKP PLK to get to work on the documentation for the Wrocław Railway Junction. In accordance with the Prime Minister’s promise, it was included, but on the reserve list of investments. We do not want to be a reserve player; in Lower Silesia, we are proving that we are leaders of change in the railway sector. We ask that Wrocław and the Wrocław Railway Junction be placed on the main list for funding and expansion – appealed Krzysztof Maj, Member of the Board of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship.
Koleje Dolnośląskie focus on development
The regional company is currently carrying out a key investment in Lower Silesia. KD will complete construction of its own service hall as early as July. This will significantly increase the operator’s independence and capabilities in repairing rolling stock and carrying out periodic inspections. The investment is being implemented with European Union support under the Regional Operational Programme, with funding exceeding PLN 50 million, as well as support from the Marshal’s Office of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. The total value of the work underway amounts to PLN 65 million.
– With the transport of the 100-millionth passenger, we are emphasising our commitment to the continuous improvement of rail services. Under an agreement with PESA, by 2024 we will strengthen our fleet with 25 modern, five-carriage Elf 2 trains of the latest generation, increasing the fleet to 88 vehicles, 65% of which will be electric – says Damian Stawikowski, president of Koleje Dolnośląskie.
In recent years, Lower Silesia has strongly focused on rail. The Voivodeship government has taken over from the state more than 20 previously inactive railway lines, stretching 300 km across Lower Silesia. The acquired lines are being revitalised to restore passenger services.