Passanger railway stop Przylasek Rusiecki (line no. 95, Kraków)

Slab Track Austria debuts in Kraków

Construction works started in May 2024 and included the installation of 233 m of ballastless PORR Slab Track Austria in both tracks 1 and 2, directly adjacent to the newly built platform no. 2. A total of 82 prefabricated slabs, each measuring 5.16 m by 2.40 m, were installed in both tracks on a load distribution slab (LDS), which transfers the track loads to the ground. Transition zones were implemented at the adjacent sections, and the highly elastic Vossloh 300 NG fastening system was used to secure the rails to the precast slabs.

Testing and approval processes

Following the completion of both tracks in November 2024, an independent testing authority carried out first driving tests. After completion of the tests in August 2025, full approval will be granted by the Polish infrastructure operator PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe S.A. This will allow further sections to be installed with ballastless PORR Slab Track Austria technology.

Future potential

The construction of around 20 km of railway tunnels and several high-speed lines is planned over the next few years in Poland as part of the Central Communication Port (CPK) program. These developments present significant potential for the broader implementation of PORR’s Slab Track Austria system. The national railway operator has expressed a strong interest in the technology, highlighting its durability, system stability, low maintenance requirements, fast installation, ease of maintenance, precise engineering, operational safety, vibration and noise reduction, as well as its adaptability for various railway infrastructure applications.