Amid the peak of summer heat, passengers of 'Ukrzaliznytsia' are increasingly complaining about unbearable temperatures in the carriages. Many propose a radical solution — to completely exclude carriages without air conditioning from the schedules. However, the company's management explains that such a step would only exacerbate the situation with the ticket shortage.
Shortage of seats versus comfort
'Ukrzaliznytsia' emphasized: abandoning carriages without air conditioning means losing thousands of passenger seats. The ticket shortage, which is already felt acutely, would become even more critical. Therefore, the carrier is forced to use all technically serviceable carriages that meet safety requirements.
The train fleet is gradually being repaired, modernized, and replenished with new trains. However, it is impossible to radically change the situation already this summer. As noted by the company, the production or modernization of thousands of carriages requires years of work, significant investments, and capacity — especially under conditions of a full-scale war.
How to distinguish a carriage with air conditioning and what to do if it breaks down
Information about the presence of an air conditioner is displayed even at the stage of buying a ticket. If the carriage number has a snowflake mark — the cooling system should be working. If the air conditioner is not functioning during the trip, passengers are advised to immediately contact the train conductor. If there are free seats, a transfer to another carriage is possible.
After completing the journey, it is worth leaving feedback through the 'Rate your journey' function in the app. This will help identify the specific carriage, record the malfunction, and send it for repair.
If 'no air conditioning' (crossed-out snowflake) is indicated when buying a ticket, it means that the carriage is structurally not equipped with a cooling system. Such carriages are equipped with forced ventilation, but it only ensures air circulation. At temperatures of +35...+40°C, the same hot air enters the salon, so the ventilation cannot provide a comfortable temperature.
What to do if the window does not open or another malfunction occurs
If the window in the carriage does not open or another technical problem arises, passengers should report this to the conductor or the train conductor. If the problem can be eliminated en route — it will be done immediately. If not — it will be recorded for subsequent repair.
Recommendations for passengers in the heat
'Ukrzaliznytsia' advises taking a sufficient supply of drinking water, light clothing, a portable fan or hand fan, a power bank, and a light snack on the trip. People with cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, diabetes, or chronic lung diseases are recommended to consult with a family doctor before the trip.
If during the trip a passenger or someone nearby feels severe weakness, dizziness, nausea, or other symptoms of overheating, it is necessary to immediately report this to the conductor or the train conductor. If necessary, medical personnel will be called to the nearest station.
Context: how air conditioners work in trains
Previously, 'Ukrzaliznytsia' explained why air conditioners do not always start cooling the salon immediately after departure and on which routes their operation is less effective. The company is also stepping up the fight against fare evasion in suburban trains, emphasizing that ticket sales directly affect route planning, the number of carriages, and the preservation of stops. Passengers are urged to report cases of illegal fundraising without a ticket.
