Ukrzaliznytsia introduced combined train and bus routes in frontline regions
Due to the deteriorating security situation, Ukrzaliznytsia has changed the passenger transport routes to Sumy and Lozova. Some trains were cancelled and replaced with combined routes featuring bus transfers. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Тетяна Веремєєва), according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Due to the worsening security situation in Sumy region, the state carrier has adjusted the passenger transport schedule. Some trips to Sumy were cancelled and replaced with a daily route involving a transfer in Konotop.
Combined connection from Kyiv to Sumy
Direct train travel to Sumy is currently unavailable, so passengers are offered a single ticket covering both train and bus. The train departs from Kyiv at 06:10 and arrives in Konotop at 10:30, where passengers transfer to a company bus.
In the opposite direction, the bus leaves Sumy at 07:30, and the train to the capital departs from Konotop at 12:22. Passengers do not need to pay separately for the bus ride, as its cost is already included in the single travel document.
Cancelled trains and route adjustments
The company has completely cancelled the operation of three trains, namely No. 779 Sumy – Kyiv, No. 66 Kyiv – Sumy, and No. 775/776 Sumy – Kyiv. At the same time, train No. 143/144 now runs on a modified route between Konotop and Rakhiv.
Passengers from Sumy traveling toward Rakhiv must first reach Konotop by bus. Tickets for railway transport in the Sumy direction can currently be purchased five days in advance of the trip.
Pilot transfer project to Lozova
Starting October 1, the carrier launched a pilot project featuring scheduled buses in frontline areas of Sumy and Kharkiv regions. Communication with Lozova through Kharkiv is organized under this principle, with vehicles waiting for each other in case of delays.
To travel to Lozova, passengers take a train to Kharkiv and then continue their journey by bus. If necessary, the enterprise is ready to schedule additional evacuation trips for civilians.
Reasons for route modifications
Ukrzaliznytsia explained these measures by regular shelling and infrastructure damage throughout August and September. Specifically, on September 8 at Toropylivka station, a drone strike damaged the Kyiv – Sumy train.
Replacing part of the railway service with combined routes helps preserve transport connectivity and significantly reduces risks for passengers. The company’s monitoring centers continue to constantly track the security situation in the region.
Photo: RBC-Ukraine
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