Poland’s Łódź HSR Tunnel: CPK Project’s Rail Infrastructure

PORR Awarded Contract to Construct Poland’s Largest Urban High-Speed Rail Tunnel in Łódź

In a landmark development for Poland’s high-speed rail (HSR) network, construction firm PORR has secured a contract to build a 4.6-kilometer, 14-meter-wide tunnel under Łódź. Valued at approximately PLN 2.2 billion, this project constitutes a critical segment of railway line no. 85, the “Y” line, poised to significantly enhance connectivity within Poland and with key European transport corridors. The contract award, announced recently, marks a major step forward in the ambitious Central Communication Port (CPK) project, designed to transform Poland’s transportation infrastructure. This article delves into the specifics of the project, its strategic importance, the innovative engineering involved, and its impact on Poland’s railway landscape. The project is set to commence later this year, with the ultimate goal of launching Poland’s fastest HSR services to Wrocław and Poznań by 2035. The new line will allow high-speed trains to pass beneath the city centre, ensuring fast connections between Warsaw, Sieradz, Wrocław and Poznań.

Engineering the Future: The Łódź HSR Tunnel Project

The Łódź tunnel project is a significant undertaking, representing Poland’s longest and widest single-section rail tunnel built using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). The tunnel’s diameter of 14 meters allows for ample space for high-speed rail lines and associated infrastructure, while its 4.6-kilometer length will run at depths ranging from 25 to 35 meters beneath the city center. PORR will employ cutting-edge TBM technology, leveraging its extensive experience in urban tunnelling projects across Europe. The initial phase, beginning later this year, will focus on detailed design and establishing crucial support infrastructure for the TBM. Tunnelling operations are scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026, initiating from the “Retkinia” launch shaft and progressing toward the “Fabryczna” reception shaft. This phased approach ensures meticulous planning and execution, critical for the successful completion of this technically demanding project.

Strategic Significance: Connecting Poland and Europe

This HSR tunnel is a cornerstone of the “Y” line, directly connecting Warsaw and the forthcoming CPK Airport with Łódź by 2032. This connection is pivotal for Poland’s integration within the European Union’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), linking the North Sea and Baltic Sea corridors. Dr. Filip Czernicki, CEO of CPK, emphasized the dual-use capabilities of the new railway line, designed to meet both civilian and military standards, further enhancing Poland’s resilience. The entire infrastructure, including HSR lines, the CPK Airport, and associated road networks, adheres to stringent safety protocols established by the Polish government and the EU. This alignment with international standards solidifies Poland’s position as a critical transit hub within Central and Eastern Europe.

Mitigating Risks: Engineering Safety and Stability

Given the complexities of urban tunnelling, PORR will implement comprehensive measures to mitigate potential impacts. These include employing geotechnical reinforcements and structural safeguards to minimize ground settlement and protect nearby buildings. A sophisticated geodetic monitoring system will be continuously deployed to track structural conditions, complemented by expert surveys and detailed documentation of the technical status and safety of buildings along the tunnel route. This proactive approach ensures the safety of residents and the integrity of existing infrastructure throughout the construction phase, minimizing disruption and ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability.

PORR’s Expertise: A Legacy of Railway Construction

PORR brings a wealth of experience to this complex project, having completed approximately seven kilometers of tunnelling in Poland, including projects in Lower Silesia and Świnoujście, and a strong track record of successful urban infrastructure projects across Europe. This background positions PORR exceptionally well to navigate the challenges of the Łódź project. Piotr Kledzik, CEO of PORR, stated that the company is “honoured to lead this unprecedented and technically demanding tunnel project.”

Conclusion

The Łódź HSR tunnel represents a pivotal advancement in Poland’s railway infrastructure, signaling a significant stride towards enhanced connectivity and economic growth. The project’s strategic importance extends beyond national borders, forming a crucial link within the TEN-T network and strengthening Poland’s position as a key transportation hub in Central and Eastern Europe. The use of advanced tunnelling technology and comprehensive safety measures underlines a commitment to quality and responsible construction practices, minimizing risks and ensuring project longevity. The successful completion of this project, slated for 2028, will transform the railway experience, enabling high-speed travel between major Polish cities and facilitating efficient connections with international destinations. The ongoing CPK initiative, integrating the HSR network with a new central airport, promises to further enhance Poland’s multimodal transport capabilities, facilitating seamless travel for both passengers and freight, and driving future economic prosperity. As the project moves forward, it exemplifies the crucial role of railway infrastructure development in shaping a modern and interconnected Poland, capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century.