České dráhy opens new 830 million CZK train maintenance hall in Cheb

České dráhy (Czech Railways) has officially opened a new, modern train maintenance hall in Cheb. The three-track service center was constructed over 28 months at a cost of 830 million CZK (excluding VAT). The project was funded through the Just Transition Fund, the State Fund for Transport Infrastructure, and a loan from the European Investment Bank.

The facility features 165-meter tracks, allowing for the servicing of entire train sets, such as InterJet or RegioPanter units, without the need for decoupling. The building is equipped with a 12.5-ton portal crane and five sets of jacks capable of lifting up to five carriage sets simultaneously. To promote sustainability, the hall includes a photovoltaic power plant, rainwater harvesting systems, and heat pumps.

The center will serve the Karlovy Vary region and parts of the Ústí nad Labem region, with potential future cooperation with German transport operators. Starting in 2028, the facility is expected to service Railjet units. Currently employing nearly 100 people, Czech Railways plans to increase the workforce by 15 to 20 percent, focusing on recruiting qualified electrical and electronic technicians through partnerships with local schools.