Tree Limb Strikes Train Near Warsaw, Causing Rail Disruptions

A tree limb fell onto an IC19132 train and its overhead power lines near Pruszków on June 26, leading to significant delays, cancellations, and route changes on the Warsaw–Skierniewice line.

The Incident and Infrastructure Damage

Serious railway disruptions occurred near Pruszków on the afternoon of June 26. After 2:00 PM, a tree limb fell onto a train traveling from Warsaw and damaged the overhead catenary system. The incident caused failure to the railway infrastructure, specifically damaging both the contact wire and the train’s pantograph.

Emergency Response and Evacuation

PKP staff and the fire department were dispatched to the site. Firefighters inspected the roof of the IC19132 train (Warsaw–Łódź) before evacuating passengers to a nearby platform. Once the train was secured, crews cleared the debris from the lines.

Repairs and Traffic Management

Following the fire service intervention, PKP technicians repaired the damaged power lines. The affected train was towed from the site after 9:00 PM. During the repair period, long-distance traffic was diverted to the suburban line.

Passenger Impacts and Ticket Honoring

The incident caused extensive delays, route shortenings, and multiple cancellations across the Warsaw–Skierniewice route. Effective at 3:52 PM, authorities implemented mutual ticket honoring between Koleje Mazowieckie and PKP Intercity services to assist stranded passengers.

Cancellations and Alternative Transport

Numerous regional services were cancelled or partially rerouted, including connections on the Pilawa–Grodzisk Mazowiecki and Warsaw–Grodzisk Mazowiecki lines. Passengers were redirected to alternative trains as rail authorities worked to restore normal operations throughout the evening.