In Poland, the possibility of constructing a metro system in about ten major cities is being considered. This is related to the law on civil protection. This was reported by Infrastructure Minister Dariusz Klimczak.
According to him, the new metro lines will not only serve a transport function but will also act as shelters for the population. This is due to the implementation of the law on civil protection and civil defense, which requires consideration of the so-called dual-use.
The project has been given the working title «Metro Polska.» It is expected to be implemented in a format of cooperation between the state and local authorities — to address transport issues and prepare infrastructure for future needs in advance.
The first phase of the project will cover six cities: Warsaw, Łódź, Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, and Gdańsk. Ultimately, metro lines will also be built in Białystok, Lublin, and other locations.
The Law on Civil Protection
As of January 1, 2026, the law on civil protection and civil defense is in effect in Poland (it is unofficially referred to as the «shelter law»).
It regulates the creation and use of collective protection facilities: shelters, hideouts, and temporary places for shelter (MDS). These regulations are also important for the real estate market.
Amendments to the Law
President Karol Nawrocki has signed amendments to the law. The new rules:
- allow financing of civil protection projects for several years in advance (up to 5 years);
- introduce a new category — «shelter point»;
- clarify the rules for accounting for civil defense facilities and their registry.
As a result, the authorities aim not only to improve transport but also to strengthen the population’s security system.
