Warsaw Commuter Railway

The Warsaw Commuter Railway (WKD) is one of the oldest railway lines in Poland, which began its operations on December 11, 1927, as the Electric Commuter Railways (EKD). Its establishment aimed to improve transportation in the suburban areas of Warsaw, with the first standard-gauge electric line connecting Warsaw to Grodzisk Mazowiecki. In the 1930s, the line was expanded, and its operation led to a significant increase in passenger numbers, reaching over 4 million transported people by 1939. Train services were halted during World War II when the infrastructure was destroyed under occupation, and the carriages were used to build barricades. After the war, the railway was nationalized and restored to operation, making it the first means of transportation in Warsaw to resume service post-war. From an architectural perspective, WKD stations and infrastructure blend historical elements with modern amenities, evident in the contemporary design of stops and track modernizations. In recent years, WKD has undergone significant technical changes, including a voltage upgrade from 600V to 3000V, as well as the introduction of modern rolling stock, such as the EN97 and EN100 series units. An interesting fact is that WKD’s offerings include not only regular passenger transport but also a Park & Ride option, facilitating travel to Warsaw. Employment at WKD and its impact on the local economy are significant aspects of its operations, and its history is closely tied to the development of transport in the region and the adaptation of infrastructure to meet residents' needs. Currently, WKD manages three railway lines, and its contribution to Warsaw’s suburban communication is invaluable.