Poland’s ZSK: Modernizing Rail & Expanding Infrastructure for 2035

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Introduction

Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) and PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PLK) are advancing the planning stage for Poland’s Integrated Railway Network (ZSK), a comprehensive strategy to modernize and expand the country’s rail system, under the purview of the Ministry of Infrastructure. The project has moved from consultations to detailed analysis, with final recommendations expected in Q1 2026.

Project Scope and Expansion

Experts are currently examining approximately 10 potential scenarios for the growth of Poland’s railway infrastructure beyond 2035. Preliminary assessments indicate that the existing network will be augmented by over 2,000 km of new railway lines, with roughly 1,000 km slated for completion by 2035. This expansion significantly surpasses the scope of the initial CPK “spokes” plan, which primarily emphasized routes originating from Warsaw.

Strategic Shift and Regional Connectivity

The Poland’s Integrated Railway Network is designed to foster comprehensive regional connections. Maciej Lasek, Government Plenipotentiary for CPK, stated that the project is envisioned as “a project that unites rather than divides,” emphasizing the need for cross-regional links that reflect contemporary travel patterns. Deputy Infrastructure Minister Piotr Malepszak highlighted the objective of connecting all subregional and major cities in Poland to the rail network by 2035, stressing the importance of connections between regions, rather than solely focusing on Warsaw. The analyses indicate a requirement for at least 2,000 km of new lines, with half of them to be completed by 2035.

Consultation and Stakeholder Involvement

The consultation phase involved meetings in all 16 regional capitals. These discussions included expert workshops and contributions from over 700 participants, encompassing local officials, transport operators, universities, logistics firms, and defense-related institutions. Furthermore, the Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW) and the Institute of Urban and Regional Development (IRMiR), two major government think tanks, participated in the process for the first time.

Detailed Analysis and Network Compatibility

Piotr Rachwalski, CPK Board Member for Railway Investments, explained that several scenarios were developed through extensive consultations. These scenarios are now undergoing detailed testing in collaboration with PLK to ensure compatibility with the existing network.

Conclusion

The Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) and PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PLK), under the Ministry of Infrastructure, are currently in the detailed analysis phase of Poland’s Integrated Railway Network (ZSK) project. This initiative, designed to expand and modernize the rail system, follows a consultation phase that involved numerous stakeholders. The ZSK project is expected to add over 2,000 km of new railway lines, with approximately 1,000 km to be delivered by 2035, and final recommendations are scheduled for publication in Q1 2026.

Company Summary

Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK): CPK is involved in planning and development of Poland’s railway infrastructure.

PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PLK): PLK is collaborating with CPK on Poland’s Integrated Railway Network.

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