Yes, I noticed that a couple of lines have been closed recently. I assumed it was maybe industry (steel production?) has been decomissioned and demand reduced as a result. It's hard to tell from Google Earth but some areas look like derelict wastelands now.
I am train buff myself so I understand your fascination :)
I am not living in that area myself, here in Warsaw though public transport is in general very safe.
My hazardous activity remark was referring to clattering along badly maintained track in worn out stock :) although one website mentioned that some improvements had been made so increasing the chances of one's survival on some routes :)