In November, Warsaw’s Szybka Kolej Miejska celebrated its 20th year on the rails as 15 daily‑line employees received the city’s “Zasłużony dla Warszawy” award.
20 Years of SKM Service
For two decades the Szybka Kolej Miejska (SKM) has moved more than 320 million passengers across the Warsaw metropolitan area. The first train’s departure 20 years ago marked the beginning of a vital high‑speed commuter network that now serves the capital daily.
Awarding Recognition to 15 Staff
Just before the 25 November Day of the Railway, 15 SKM employees were presented with the “Zasłużony dla Warszawy” award by City Councilor Piotr Wertensteina‑Żuławskiego, Chair of the Infrastructure and Investment Committee.
Roles Behind the Scenes
The honorees include locomotors, train managers, traffic supervisors, and dispatchers—professionals who ensure punctuality, safety, and comfort for passengers.
Maria Wasiak, SKM board president, stated that “we wanted to recognize those whose contribution to the company’s 20‑year history is undeniable.”
Dispatchers Keep the Line Running
Michał Głaszczka, a dispatcher for 15 years, said he is “in constant contact with train managers, PKP PLK dispatchers, the Transport Board, and other carriers.” He notes his quick information relay during incidents keeps passengers on schedule.
Paweł Szmigielski, traffic supervisor for 13 years, explains that “planning must account for all repairs, servicing, cleaning, and reserves.” He coordinates night shifts so that trams leave the depot by 3 a.m. ready for service.
Impact on Warsaw’s Public Transport
The SKM’s success is reflected in the nearly 60 000 daily users of its 100‑meter carriages, contributing significantly to the city’s public‑transport network.
Maciej Fijałkowski, Secretary of the City of Warsaw, highlighted that over the past 20 years, SKM’s daily ridership and efficient operations have bolstered Warsaw’s transit system, serving not only the capital but the entire metropolitan area.
