SBB Cuts German Train Routes Due to Delays at DB

SBB has reduced German train routes because delays at Deutsche Bahn continue disrupting cross-border services, forcing travelers heading to Switzerland to switch trains at Basel. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Delays Force SBB to Limit Cross-Border Train Services

Beginning April 29, EuroCity trains EC 7 and EC 9 will terminate in Basel instead of traveling to Interlaken Ost and Zurich. These changes follow extensive delays from DB.

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SBB plans to expand its own services within Switzerland to maintain punctuality and ensure smooth onward connections. Trains heading into Germany will continue as scheduled since SBB operates those routes.

The decision comes after DB’s persistent issues in 2024, when only 62.5% of its trains arrived on time. These delays have created risks for the Swiss network, which maintained record punctuality.

SBB Responds to Ongoing Delays with New Timetable Strategy

To minimize disruptions, SBB had already shortened routes from Hamburg to Chur in late 2022. In July 2024, it introduced a rule canceling any DB train arriving over 10 minutes late after reaching Basel.

The Swiss operator noted that in 90% of such cases, passengers found timely alternatives via Swiss Rail. More adjustments may follow if DB fails to improve its schedule adherence.

Swiss authorities continue emphasizing the need for dependable rail connections. As delays at DB persist, SBB is prioritizing reliability—even if it requires limiting international routes.

Source: www.iamexpat.de

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