Górnośląskie Koleje Wąskotorowe celebrates 173rd anniversary

The Górnośląskie Koleje Wąskotorowe (Upper Silesian Narrow-Gauge Railways) is hosting a two-day celebration at the Bytom Karb Wąskotorowy station to mark its 173rd anniversary and the 60th anniversary of the Lyd1-309 locomotive.

On Saturday, September 19, the event features a historical reenactment titled ‘Po torach przez granicę’ (Along the tracks through the border). Participants will ride a historical train through the former Polish-German border, including a staged customs inspection and a skirmish between customs officers and smugglers. The program also includes station tours.

On Sunday, September 20, the focus shifts to celebrations. Activities include train rides from Bytom to Tarnowskie Góry and Miasteczko Śląskie, locomotive driving lessons under instructor supervision, EN57 simulators, and manual handcar rides. The event will also feature concerts, food stalls, and children's activities.

Established in 1853, this is the oldest narrow-gauge railway in Poland and the second oldest in Europe. While it historically served the industrial transport of coal, zinc, and lead, it has transitioned to tourist services since 1993.