Czech Railways (České dráhy) has successfully renewed its European ECM (Entity in Charge of Maintenance) certification for a further five years, allowing it to continue maintaining locomotives, trainsets, passenger and freight cars, track machines, and even high-speed trains in-house.
“This renewal is good news for Czech Railways and a clear assurance that our locomotives and passenger coaches are maintained to the strictest standards, in line with current European and Czech rail legislation. Maintenance is a key pillar of our business, and the extended ECM certification enables us to further develop and improve our servicing capabilities,” said Michal Kraus, Deputy CEO for Maintenance and Vice Chairman of the Board at Czech Railways.
Under the EU’s Fourth Railway Package, entities responsible for train maintenance are required to implement the ECM system – a comprehensive set of procedures and regulations governing rolling stock upkeep. This includes strict safety and quality standards, the use of appropriate components, and continuous professional development of maintenance personnel. ECM certification is mandatory and is overseen in the Czech Republic by the Rail Authority (Drážní úřad).
Czech Railways continues to invest heavily in its maintenance infrastructure. Last year alone, the national operator invested over CZK 1.1 billion (EUR 44 million) in new service halls, modern maintenance technology, and the upgrade of existing facilities. Construction began on two new depots in Cheb and Havlíčkův Brod, and further major investment is underway this year, including a large-scale renovation project in Olomouc. Additional works are also planned in České Budějovice, Česká Třebová, Hradec Králové and Prague.
Share on:
