Metrorail is getting closer. GZM receives EU funding for the purchase of 16 trains
The Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis will receive over PLN 321.4 million in EU funding for the purchase of 16 modern trains. This is the first time in GZM's history that it has purchased its own rolling stock. The new vehicles are intended to become the core of Metrorail – a planned system of fast and frequent rail connections in the Metropolis.
The Centre for EU Transport Projects has completed the evaluation of applications in the competition for the "Purchase of Zero-Emission Rolling Stock for Passenger Transport," implemented under the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate, and Environment 2021–2027 program. The Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis project has been selected for funding.
"This is one of the most important moments in the history of GZM and, at the same time, a very concrete step towards Metrorail. For the first time, we are purchasing our own trains, which will be part of the Metropolis's integrated transport system. We want the residents of our Metropolis and the entire region to be able to travel between cities quickly, safely, and comfortably," says Leszek Pietraszek, Chairman of the Management Board of GZM.
The "Zero-Emission Rolling Stock for the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis" project involves the purchase of 16 electric multiple units (EMUs). The total project value is PLN 806.9 million, of which eligible costs amount to PLN 656.05 million. The allocated funding from the European Union amounts to PLN 321.46 million.
Towards the Transport of the Future
The purchase of rolling stock is a key element of the construction of the Metrorail. For several years, GZM has consistently strengthened the role of rail in the Metrorail transport system – including through financing additional rail connections and tariff integration with GZM Transport.
The new trains will be adapted to the needs of modern metropolitan transport. The planned standard will include, among other things, Air conditioning, electrical outlets, space for bicycles, a family zone, a modern Passenger Information System, and solutions to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. The vehicles will reach speeds of up to 160 km/h and accommodate at least 380 passengers, including a minimum of 185 seated.
Another important element of the project is the integration of the new trains with other public transport modes in the Metropolis. GZM trains will be equipped with, among other things, Transport GZM validators and a passenger counting system. This will allow the railway to function as an integral part of a single transport system – alongside buses, trams, trolleybuses, and the Metrorower.
This is the first train purchase in GZM's history. Until now, Transport GZM has primarily operated buses, trams, and trolleybuses. The purchase of its own rolling stock marks the Metropolis's entry into a new area of public transport organization and the creation of its own infrastructure for the developing Metrorail.
Joint rail development is also a focus of cooperation between GZM and the Silesian Voivodeship. In February of this year, the two institutions announced a plan to jointly purchase 32 trains – 16 each for GZM and the Silesian Voivodeship, with the possibility of expanding the order to include an additional 20 vehicles.