The Dětmarovice – Petrovice u Karviné railway line is an 11-kilometre double-track route used for both passenger and freight transport in the Czech Republic and Poland. Beyond the Czech border, the line continues to the Polish station Zebrzydowice. The aim of the modernisation was the complete reconstruction of the line, including remediation of the track substructure, renewal of the superstructure, reconstruction of the overhead contact system, and refurbishment of the traction substation in Petrovice u Karviné.
A key improvement was the adjustment of the curve within the Petrovice u Karviné station area, enabling trains to pass through at speeds of up to 100 km/h. The stations Dětmarovice and Petrovice u Karviné, the halt Závada, and the railway bridge over the Olše River were all modernised as part of the project. Passengers at all these locations now benefit from modernised platforms with full barrier-free access.
Five level crossings along the route were also reconstructed, including upgrades to their signalling systems where required. A major safety enhancement was the installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS).
The first station along the line is Dětmarovice, located close to the town’s thermal power plant. The station also serves the residents of nearby Orlová, which no longer has regular passenger rail services. As part of the reconstruction, modern fully barrier-free platforms with entirely new roofing were built.
The station has been equipped with new passenger furniture, as well as a modern information and orientation system. The existing underpass connecting the platforms was fitted with new lifts. The station also received a new signalling system. The line then continues across a reconstructed steel railway bridge, which now includes a new road underpass for road traffic. The original underpass no longer met current standards.
The next stop is Závada, located less than 3 km from Dětmarovice station and approximately 1 km from the village of the same name. The halt is now fully barrier-free and equipped with brand-new passenger furniture, including a new shelter.
The final station on the reconstructed section is Petrovice u Karviné. Here, the curve was also adjusted, eliminating the need for trains to slow down to 65 km/h. Trains can now pass through the station at speeds of up to 100 km/h. Like the other stations, Petrovice u Karviné is now fully barrier-free.
In addition to new canopied platforms, new lifts have been installed to facilitate movement between platforms. The station is heavily used for freight transport. The new barrier-free platforms at all stations on the line significantly improve travel comfort for families with children and passengers with reduced mobility.
The renewal of the track superstructure and substructure reduces the risk of operational incidents and increases ride comfort. Construction works took place from 2020 and were completed in June 2024. The Dětmarovice – Petrovice u Karviné railway line is now fully in operation.
Source: Official SAGASTA video on LinkedIn