On 3 December 2024, representatives of PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL and the Moravian-Silesian Region signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the transformation of the area after the end of mining in the Moravian-Silesian Region and the use of the Ostrava-Karviná siding network for the construction of a tramway connection between the towns of Ostrava and Karviná.
PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL is the owner of an extensive siding network in the Ostrava-Karviná agglomeration, which is mainly used to ensure the transport needs of the Ostrava-Karviná mines. The gradual closure of underground mining is generating changes in the way and purpose of use of some parts of the siding network.
“We perceive the use of a part of the siding network owned by PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL for the construction of the tramway connection Ostrava-Orlová-Karviná and Orlová-Havířov as another meaningful step in the transformation of our region. The railway lines of the Ostrava-Carviná region have a very rich history. Together with the decline of coal mining, their importance is logically decreasing. Therefore, together with the Moravian-Silesian Region, municipalities or MSID, we are looking for possibilities for their further use in the future, for further business, passenger transport or leisure activities of the region’s inhabitants. Examples include the excursion trains that have been operating for several years on the former mines or the planned use of the land for the construction of cycle paths, ” says Łukasz Grzesło, Chairman of the Board of Directors of PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL.
The Moravian-Silesian Region supports the development of its territory using all possible and available legal means in accordance with its approved priorities. An important aspect of these activities of the MSK is also open cooperation with all major entities operating on its territory in connection with the economic transformation of the region’s industry, with the aim of minimising the structural impact on the region and promoting technological and social transformation.
“This plan is part of a broader strategy for the transformation of the region after the decline of mining and builds on the historic tram and train routes that were lost due to mining during the last century. The Moravian-Silesian Region sees this topic as an opportunity to increase the attractiveness of the area, attract key investors, use mining brownfields and strengthen ecological public transport in the Ostrava-Karviná agglomeration,” adds Ing. Radek Podstawka, Deputy Governor of the Moravian-Silesian Region.
Lukáš Kresač
Spokesperson
PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL Group
