PKP Intercity has signed a major contract with Hochtief Polska SA for the reconstruction and modernisation of rolling stock maintenance facilities at the Kraków Prokocim railway siding. The PLN 57.5 million (EUR 13.5 million) project aims to enhance train dispatch capabilities, streamline maintenance operations, and improve working conditions for staff.
The agreement, finalised on 24 July, is part of PKP Intercity’s broader investment strategy to upgrade its maintenance infrastructure and increase operational efficiency. The scope of the project includes a comprehensive overhaul of two key repair halls and adjacent railway infrastructure, with completion scheduled within 24 months of the contract date.
Extensive reconstruction and infrastructure upgrade
Under the contract, Hochtief Polska will carry out an extensive modernisation programme covering both structural and technical elements of the facility. Works will include:
- Full reconstruction of the roofs of the eastern and western halls, including the replacement of roofing and skylights.
- Renewal of the track surfaces inside both halls and adjustments to the surrounding track network.
- Reconstruction of inspection channels, foundation slabs, and internal flooring.
- Replacement and upgrading of all major utility installations, including electrical, water, sewage, and central heating systems, alongside the introduction of mechanical ventilation.
- Overhaul of the traction network within both halls.
- Modernisation of employee spaces, including social areas, locker rooms, workshops, and storage facilities.
- Fire safety improvements, including reconstruction of fire routes, replacement of external hydrants, and fire protection water systems in both buildings.
The buildings, with a combined usable area exceeding 10,000 m², play a vital role in the maintenance of PKP Intercity’s locomotive and carriage fleet. Their pass-through track configuration enables two-way access, allowing multiple trains to be serviced simultaneously—an operational advantage that will be further enhanced through this investment.
Historical site under conservation guidelines
The Kraków Prokocim siding is part of the larger Kraków Bieżanów – PKP Repair Plant railway complex and benefits from conservation protection due to its historic significance. Accordingly, all modernisation works will be carried out in compliance with heritage preservation requirements.
The project not only maintains the architectural character of the buildings but also integrates modern standards for infrastructure, safety, and sustainability. PKP Intercity has emphasised the aesthetic and historical value of the site as a key element of the investment.
Boosting capacity and service quality
Once completed, the refurbished facility will allow for faster, more efficient maintenance and improved rolling stock availability, particularly for long-distance and regional services operating out of Kraków. These include connections to cities such as Zagórz, Łupków, Jelenia Góra, Hrubieszów, Lublin, Poznań, Warsaw, Olsztyn, and Szczecin.
PKP Intercity expects the modernisation to significantly reduce turnaround times for rolling stock servicing, resulting in increased train availability and improved punctuality. Enhanced safety systems and better working conditions for staff are also key outcomes of the project.
In a statement, the operator said the investment “will translate into improved vehicle availability for connections and increased operational efficiency within the siding,” adding that it will also “significantly improve the punctuality of train preparation for departure, improve rail traffic safety, and enhance the safety and comfort of employees.”
All activities, the company emphasised, are ultimately aimed at improving the quality of service for passengers.
Part of a wider investment strategy
This project at Kraków Prokocim forms part of PKP Intercity’s larger programme to upgrade maintenance depots and sidings across Poland in response to growing passenger numbers and the expansion of the operator’s fleet. The company has been investing heavily in modern rolling stock and service infrastructure as part of its long-term development strategy.
The gross value of the contract stands at PLN 57,447,775.12 (EUR 13.497.929,24), and construction is set to be completed within 24 months. The contract was awarded to Hochtief Polska following an open tender process.
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