EU loans Poland $364m for rail upgrade

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has awarded Poland a loan worth $364m for improvements on a railway line between Katowice to Krakow. 

The 58km link will be modernised for passenger trains running at a maximum speed of 160km/h and freight trains running at 120km/h. 

The national rail network management organisation Polskie Linie Kolejowe will use the money for improvements including the replacement of ballast, sleepers, track and overhead catenary as well as upgrading power supply. 

Several stations will be reconstructed to ensure full accessibility for people with reduced mobility. Noise barriers, better drainage and animal crossings will be implemented. 

Work will begin this year and is scheduled for completion by 2016.