Warsaw buys 120 buses. It's a secret weapon for natural disasters!

Warsaw is preparing for a future that may surprise. The municipal transportation board just announced landmark tender to acquisition 120 articulated buses that will not only change regular transport in the capital but will become a key component of the civilian protection system. These 18-foot giants will be able to carry not only hundreds of passengers, but also... persons injured on a stretcher in crisis situations. It is the first specified investment in Poland to combine urban transport with emergency preparation.

In the face of increasing challenges, from natural disasters to possible infrastructure failures, the capital of Poland focuses on innovative solutions. Each of the fresh buses will be able to accommodate to four people lying on a stretcherwhich is an absolute novelty in Polish public transport. Medical equipment will be stored and rapidly available, and the adaptation of the vehicle to transport injured is to be maximum simplified. The Magistrat, headed by ZTM, prepares in this way for all scenario, providing residents of Warsaw with a sense of security, which has not yet existed.

Innovation on a national scale: Two-functional buses

The concept of dual-function buses is a real milestone in urban crisis management. To date, public transport has served mainly regular commutes, but Warsaw shows that it can be much more than just a communication tool. fresh vehicles will be equipped with peculiar mountings and systems that will let them to rapidly transform from comfortable urban transport into mobile medical support units. Imagine a script of a abrupt flood, hurricane or another catastrophe – these buses will be able to rapidly evacuate victims and supply them with basic transport to medical stations or shelters.

It's not just a theory. ZTM spokesperson, Tomasz Kunert, made it clear that fresh vehicles "not only will they service the regular needs of passengers, but they will besides supply emergency support". This double function makes the investment worth its price, due to the fact that the city gains not only modern rolling stock, but besides invaluable tool in the hands of emergency services. This shows Warsaw's proactive approach to the safety of citizens, putting it among the fewer cities in Europe that integrate transport with civilian protection so comprehensively.

Tender Details and transportation Schedule: erstwhile will we see fresh vehicles?

ZTM did not wait a minute and divided the order for two separate tenders, each of 60 vehicles. This allows manufacturers to be flexible and increases the chances of getting the best offers. Moreover, there is an option to order additional 100 buses – 50 for each part of the contract, which means that in the future the fleet of crisis vehicles can grow to 220 units. This shows a long-term imagination of safety strategy improvement in the capital.

The time limit for the submission of tenders by producers shall expire. 16 September of this year, which means that we will already meet possible contractors of this historical order in the fall. However, the first buses on the streets of Warsaw will gotta wait. transportation of the inaugural batch of vehicles is planned for the period October to December 2026. This means that the Warsawers will should be patient for more than 2 years before they see these innovative machines in action. However, the possible of a safer and more resilient city will surely make up for this waiting time.

Why diesel in the era of electrification? What about the equipment?

In a time of increasing popularity of electrical vehicles, the decision to buy diesel-powered buses may seem surprising. ZTM, however, has for this very circumstantial and applicable justification, especially in the context of their crisis destiny. In emergency situations where electrical infrastructure may be damaged or access to charging stations impeded, combustion buses guarantee energy independence. They can operate on longer routes and under unfavourable conditions without having to charge, which is crucial for evacuation or medical transport.

Despite the choice of interior combustion, fresh vehicles will be filled with modern technologies. All 18-metre buses will be low-floor, air-conditioned and equipped with passenger information systems. peculiar emphasis is placed on accessibility: vehicles will have wheelchair space, Braille subtitle buttons and advanced kneeling systems to aid people with reduced mobility. Moreover, all bus will be on the roofs photovoltaic panels, which will let partial supply of solar onboard systems, reducing fuel consumption and expanding energy efficiency. In addition, in the interests of safety, buses will receive voltage converters and Alcoholic blocks for drivers.

Warsaw builds a civilian protection system: Greater investment context

The acquisition of emergency buses is not an isolated decision, but a an integral part of the wider strategywhich aims to build a comprehensive civilian protection and civilian protection strategy in the capital. Warsaw actively seeks government funds Civil Protection and Defence Programme 2025-2026, which confirms the strategical importance of this investment. After purchase, the vehicles will be put into service to the Municipal Bus Stations (MZA), which will be liable not only for their regular service, but besides for keeping them full ready for emergency situations.

This initiative is a clear signalthat Warsaw is addressing the issue of safety with the highest priority, learning from the experiences of another cities and countries that had to face unforeseen challenges. From floods to infrastructure failures to situations requiring mass evacuation – these buses will be able to service as irreplaceable mobile support units for emergency services, importantly expanding the operational capacity of the city in the face of threats. It is an investment in the future and safety of all citizen of the capital.

What does this mean for you, Warsaw resident?

This historical investment ZTM has direct and measurable benefits for all citizen of the capital. Here's what it means to you:

• Safer public transport on a regular basis: The fresh 18-meter articulated buses are more passenger seats and much better travel comfort thanks to air conditioning and low level construction.
• Better accessibility for people with disabilities: Thanks to Braille buttons, advanced ramp systems and kneeling functions, public transport will be utilized easier and more comfortable for all passengers, regardless of their mobility.
• Increased safety in the crisis: In the event of natural disasters, accidents or another threats, the residents of Warsaw will be able to number on rapid assistance and effective evacuation utilizing buses adapted for the carriage of wounded. It's real support in the most hard moments.
• Energy savings through photovoltaics: Solar panels on bus roofs are a step towards more ecological and self-transport, even with combustion engines, which translates into lower fuel consumption.
• Greater energy independence: In emergency situations, combustion buses will be able to operate independently of the electricity grid, which increase immunity and safety the full transportation strategy of the city.
• Rapid adaptation to medical needs: Transportability four people on a stretcher on 1 bus means that in the event of mass events, the city will have additional mobile medical transport capabilities, relieving emergency services.

Warsaw, as 1 of the first capitals in Europe, connects public transport with civilian protection system, appointing new safety standards. We will know the results of the tender in September, and the first buses that can become your lifeline will only appear on the streets at the turn of the day. 2026 and 2027. Follow us in Google News to keep up with this revolutionary change!