Czech Railways and Slovak Railways announce major rail network updates

Czech Railways (České dráhy) is implementing a new timetable effective December 13, 2024, which will run through 2027. Key changes include increased frequency for the EC Slovan service between Břeclav and Prague, with new departures on Mondays and Fridays. A new direct connection, EC Glacensisme, will be introduced between Prague and Wrocław, Poland, reducing intervals to two hours during peak times. Additionally, EC Moravia services will extend to Kraków, and travel times for EC Cracovia will be significantly reduced. Night train services to Hamburg will also expand to operate from late March to mid-October, including a stop at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport.

In Slovakia, Železnice Slovenskej republiky (ŽSR) has confirmed plans to introduce speeds of up to 200 km/h on the modernized corridor north of Bratislava by the end of 2027. Current construction is underway between Devínska Nová Ves and Malacky. The section between Kúty and the Czech border is expected to support speeds of 160 km/h. Modernization efforts include station upgrades in Zohor and Malacky, as well as infrastructure improvements such as new underpasses and road overpasses.