Budimex Concludes Major Railway Junction Upgrade in Czechowice-Dziedzice

In an advancement for Poland's railway infrastructure, Budimex has completed the modernization of the Czechowice-Dziedzice railway junction. The project, commissioned by PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PKP PLK), marked its excellent final acceptance of the Most Wisła – Czechowice-Dziedzice – Zabrzeg railway section.

This ambitious undertaking involved the overhaul or construction of 23 engineering structures, including eight viaducts and four bridges, and the replacement of approximately 47 km of tracks and 56 km of traction network. The modernization also extended to three road-rail crossings and platforms at Czechowice-Dziedzice, Goczałkowice-Zdrój, and Zabrzeg stations, culminating in a four-year contract valued at PLN 1.5 billion.

According to Maciej Olek, a Board Member at Budimex SA, this project marks a notable improvement in the region's connectivity, offering a faster and more efficient service for passenger and freight trains. "Modernization of this important junction for the entire region will significantly increase the comfort of passengers traveling on the route from Katowice to Zebrzydowice, Cieszyn, and the Beskid Mountains. Improving the capacity of the section will also increase the competitiveness of freight transport with a low-emission means of transport such as rail," comments Olek.

According to Budimex, the upgrade allows passenger trains to reach speeds up to 160 km/h and freight trains up to 120 km/h, with the introduction of four main tracks, four additional tracks, and eight sidings, alongside the replacement of 119 turnouts to ensure smooth train transitions across stations and stops.

Wojciech Głuc, Budimex's Contract Director, points out that the project's completion within the set timeframe, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent labor market difficulties arising from the war in Eastern Europe, stands as a testament to Budimex's commitment and capability, and the company's focus on water management and flood protection through the installation of 670 km of reinforcing piles highlights the project's comprehensive approach to infrastructure development.

Budimex's recent ventures into major projects like the Rail Baltica line in Latvia and the reconstruction of Warsaw West station underscore its pivotal role in advancing Poland's railway sector and its burgeoning presence in the European infrastructure landscape.