Changes in the Use of Passenger Rail Transport in Poland due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Rail transportation in Poland has been experiencing substantial year-over-year growth, contributing significantly to the national economy. Recent investments in the rail network have enhanced its efficiency and capacity, encouraging an increasing number of individuals to opt for more sustainable modes of transportation. Nevertheless, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted planned innovations within the sector. During the pandemic, stringent restrictions on mobility and interpersonal contact were imposed. The objective of this article is to examine the perspectives of Polish citizens regarding the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on passenger rail traffic and their travel preferences. To this end, a survey was conducted. The results indicated that the pandemic led to a 27% decline in the use of rail transportation in Poland, primarily attributed to mobility restrictions and safety concerns. The research findings suggest that the continued development and modernization of rail infrastructure could facilitate the restoration of public interest in rail travel, particularly in the context of environmental considerations and the enhancement of travel comfort.