Pendolino train towed away after breakdown

PKP Intercity's new Pendolino train. Image: PKP

The train was being tested on the Central Trunk Line, the main railway route linking Krakow and Warsaw, in advance of a planned inauguration of services on the 14th of December.

“There is no question about any serious emergency having taken place; this is a common fault which occurs in all types of rolling stock,” said Zuzanna Szopowska, media manager of the state-owned PKP Intercity.

“Every type of new rolling stock which is being tested is allowed to experience such problems. This is nothing dangerous. It always happens when testing new rolling stock and will not have any influence on the readiness of the trains for December.”

The train was subsequently repaired at a service point and sent back for further testing.
PKP Intercity ordered 20 Pendolino trains, capable of achieving 250 km/h, as part of its railway modernization project. The trains are expected to significantly reduce travel times between Warsaw and major cities such as Gdansk and Krakow.

However there has been uncertainty about the feasibility of the original December deadline for commencing services.

Earlier this month PKP Intercity rejected 4 trains due to minor defects, and has since admitted that only 13 Pendolinos will be ready in December. (sl)

source: TVP Info