PKP PLK Awards €348M eSeŁka Line Modernization to Trakcja–Sarinż

PKP Polish Railway Lines (PKP PLK) has selected the Trakcja–Sarinż consortium for a PLN 1.5 billion (EUR 348 million) modernization of the critical eSeŁka railway line connecting Skierniewice and Łuków. The ambitious project aims to significantly boost capacity and speed along this vital freight bypass for Warsaw.

The decision, announced by PKP PLK, marks a significant step forward for the eSeŁka line, a crucial transport corridor that also functions as a vital freight bypass for the Polish capital, Warsaw. Following a competitive tender process that saw nine bidders submit offers, the Trakcja–Sarinż proposal was deemed the most advantageous, with the evaluation primarily based on the total gross price for the works. The contract is expected to be signed once the selection is legally binding and formal checks are successfully completed.

Operational Enhancements and Passenger Benefits

The extensive modernization effort covers a 63-km section of the eSeŁka railway, strategically divided into three parts: Skierniewice–Mszczonów, Mszczonów–Tarczyn, and Tarczyn–Czachówek. Upon completion of these works on the Skierniewice–Czachówek section, line speeds are projected to increase to 120 km/h, benefiting both passenger and freight services. Passengers at the three main stations and six intermediate stops will experience improved facilities, including upgraded platforms designed for individuals with reduced mobility, alongside new shelters, benches, and modern passenger information systems. The colloquial name “eSeŁka” is derived from the line’s original designation, S-Ł, combining the initials of Skierniewice and Łuków.

Strategic Investment and EU Funding

This modernization is part of a larger, multi-phase investment initiative. In January 2025, PKP PLK launched the tender for the Skierniewice–Czachówek modernization. This follows an earlier tender issued at the end of 2024 for the Czachówek–Pilawa section, valued at approximately PLN 1.3 billion (EUR 306.7 million), which includes the critical bridge at Góra Kalwaria. The combined value of these two significant projects approaches PLN 2.7 billion (EUR 637 million). Funding for these extensive upgrades is being facilitated through EU co-financing, specifically under the Connecting Europe Facility and the FEnIKS instrument. PKP PLK is actively seeking further co-financing for the eSeŁka modernization from the European Union through the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate, Environment 2021–2027 (FEnIKS) programme.