DB to modernize Anhalter Bahn with 130 km track renewal

DB starts major track work on Anhalter Bahn. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

DB has announced a large-scale modernization scheme on the Anhalter Bahn for 130 kilometers between Berlin Südkreuz and Bitterfeld. The refit will refurbish and upgrade the infrastructure to offer smoother and more reliable services to the commuters.

Construction works and network effect

The work involves the installation of 33 new switches and the refurbishment of 59, while near 100 km of track will be replaced and 38 km refurbished. Consequently, the works will ensure smooth running through at least 2028 since the December schedule change.

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Preparatory work began in 2024 on partial renewals at Bitterfeld and Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Work at Berlin will also join the new Dresden Railway. The scale of works necessitates a temporary total closure to regional and long-distance traffic.

Disruptions to passenger services

The long-distance Munich–Berlin services will be preserved, however the trains will be routed and run the passengers through Leipzig and Halle for 45–60 minutes. The direct Frankfurt–Erfurt–Berlin services will be closed during the construction duration.

The local transport will also be affected. Some lines in Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg and S-Bahn lines S2 and S8 will be replaced by buses. Additionally, the long-distance trains will not call at Berlin Südkreuz while the closure occurs.

DB puts Anhalter Bahn in focus

Anhalter Bahn once connected historically Berlin and Halle via Dessau and remains a central connection for long-distance, regional, and freight trains. The refurbishment was highlighted by DB as reinforcing connections through the German capital and central and south Germany.

Anhalter Bahn

The Anhalter Bahn was a railway in Germany that used to operate the link from Berlin to Halle across Dessau. It still exists today as a vital corridor in the DB network, carrying long-distance traffic, regionals, and freight through middle and southern Germany.

What is the scope of DB’s upgrade on the Anhalter Bahn?

It encompasses the region traversed by the Anhalter Bahn. The projects will provide safe and reliable service and minimize construction interruptions for at least three years. DB is resurfacing 130 km of the track, replacing switches, and maintaining the infrastructure.

How will passengers be affected by the works?

Journey times between Leipzig and Halle and Berlin will be increased by up to one hour. Direct long-distance trains will be cancelled and regional routes will be replaced by buses.

Why is the Anhalter Bahn important for the German railway network?

The Anhalter Bahn connects Halle and central Germany to the capital city of Berlin. It plays a central role connecting the capital to the south and remains important for both passenger and freight traffic.

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