After 33-year break, passenger trains return to Łomża; Warsaw link planned for 2027

The first journey

Prime Minister Donald Tusk boarded the inaugural passenger train from Ostrołęka to Łomża on 13 June, the first such service in 33 years. At a conference in Łomża, he announced that regular connections to Białystok, Ostrołęka, and Olsztyn will launch the following day, 14 June. The trains are modern units manufactured by the Polish company Newag.

“Łomża waited 33 years and it has finally got its wish. We're launching direct connections to Ostrołęka, Białystok, Olsztyn, and in a year you'll travel directly from Łomża to Warsaw, on modern trains manufactured by the Polish company Newag.”

What is being restored

The route from Ostrołęka to Łomża had been without passenger trains since the early 1990s. From 14 June, residents of the city and surrounding region will once again have scheduled rail links. Tusk stressed that the effort extends well beyond one town.

“We're restoring connections in very many localities, not just big cities but smaller ones too. The plan is to include all counties without exception in long-distance connections.”

A vision for all of Poland

Tusk stated that Poland is becoming Europe's largest rail investor. He contrasted the recent focus on roads and motorways with a renewed push for railways, saying the country is now catching up. The prime minister will attend a conference on Monday, 15 June, dedicated to the Integrated Railway Network (ZSK) and the so-called "Y" line. That project is designed to link Warsaw, Wrocław, Poznań, and the planned Port Polska.

High-speed rail on the horizon

As part of the broader investment, construction of a second tunnel under Łódź for high-speed rail lines has just begun. Tusk acknowledged the impact such large projects have on local residents. He said efforts are being made to minimise harm and that he would personally ensure anyone who feels wronged receives assistance.