Additional Rail Safety Measures Introduced in Certain Regions
Ukrainian Railways has announced additional operational safety measures aimed at reducing risks for passengers and railway staff while maintaining passenger services wherever possible.
As part of these measures, several operational adjustments have been introduced:
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some rail connections, particularly in regions closer to active security risks, are temporarily limited. In such cases, connecting bus services are organized to ensure passengers can still reach their destinations;
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certain long-distance direct trains may be replaced by connecting services involving suburban trains. Passengers affected by these changes are informed individually;
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a special traffic regime has been introduced on specific sections of the network, particularly in regions where increased security risks have been recorded. This may result in unscheduled stops and can occasionally affect train punctuality, including on routes connected with these regions.
Punctuality and travel speed remain important priorities. However, safety considerations take precedence. Passengers are therefore advised to avoid tight connections and to allow additional buffer time when planning their journeys.
International passenger rail services continue to operate, and adjustments reflect a safety-first operational approach under current conditions.
Source: Official operational update by Ukrainian Railways 26.01.26
Why Delays May Occur
Recent train delays are primarily linked to operational and external factors. These include security-related precautions, weather conditions, and occasional disruptions to power supply. While international passenger services continue to operate, these factors can sometimes affect punctuality.
1) Security-related operational measures
In response to heightened security risks in certain regions, Ukrzaliznytsia has introduced additional safety measures. These may include temporary route limitations, special traffic regimes on specific sections of the network, and, in some cases, unscheduled stops. As a result, short-term delays were recorded on several routes in recent days. The current operational status of trains can be monitored here: https://uz-vezemo.uz.gov.ua/delayform
2) Track damage and infrastructure repairs
If railway tracks or related infrastructure require repairs, trains may be redirected via alternative routes. These routes are often longer, which can lead to temporary delays. In most cases, such operational disruptions are resolved within 24 hours.
3) Weather conditions
Severe winter weather can also affect rail operations. Some international trains (for example, services to Warsaw or Vienna) require gauge-change procedures at border stations due to different track widths. Low temperatures and frost can make these technical procedures more time-consuming than usual.
4) Power supply disruptions
Occasional damage to electricity infrastructure may also influence train operations, potentially affecting schedules on certain routes.
Update about travel to Ukraine during winter is here
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