Germany’s rail last minute update: A five-months’ closure of the Riedbahn as a part of Deutsche Bahn’s significant renovation project

Published on July 15, 2024

By: Paramita Sarkar

Germany‘s “most important rail line,” the Riedbahn between Frankfurt am Main and Mannheim, is undergoing a critical five-month closure for Deutsche Bahn’s massive renovation project.

This ambitious undertaking by Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) aims to modernize the aging infrastructure and improve overall network efficiency.

However, the closure brings significant disruptions for passengers and freight transportation.

Revamping the Backbone of German Rail?

The Riedbahn closure marks a turning point for Deutsche Bahn.

Decades of neglect have left the German rail network outdated and unreliable. This €1.3 billion project represents the most extensive renovation in the company’s history.

By completely shutting down the line, Deutsche Bahn aims to achieve significant improvements in a shorter timeframe compared to ongoing operation renovations.

What to Expect During the Riedbahn Closure?

Extensive Works: The project encompasses replacing 150 switches, modernizing 20 stations, installing noise barriers, and upgrading tracks, overhead lines, and signaling systems.

The Riedbahn will also undergo digitization.

Long-Distance Travel: Approximately two-thirds of ICE and IC high-speed trains will be rerouted, adding 30 minutes to travel times.

The remaining one-third will be canceled or diverted. Connections to Paris will be impacted as well.

Frankfurt Airport‘s main train station will not be directly accessible from Mannheim during the closure.

Local Transport Disruptions: All local trains on the Riedbahn and its branches will be replaced with a comprehensive bus service.

Deutsche Bahn has procured 150 buses equipped with toilets, Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports.

Freight Traffic Impact: Freight transportation will be rerouted, leading to potential delays and increased costs for companies according to the German Railway Competitors Association.

There’s a concern that cargo may permanently shift to trucks.

Looking Ahead: Long-Term Benefits

Despite the temporary disruptions, the Riedbahn renovation promises long-term benefits.

The project aims to:

Reduce Delays and Disruptions: By addressing infrastructure issues, Deutsche Bahn expects a significant decrease in faults and delays on the Riedbahn, improving overall network reliability.

Increased Capacity: The upgraded infrastructure will allow the Riedbahn to handle more traffic in the future.

Improved Passenger Experience: Modernized stations and potentially faster travel times aim to enhance the passenger experience.

Future Renovations on the Horizon

The Riedbahn closure marks the beginning of a larger national initiative. Given the nationwide condition of the railway network, further renovations are planned.

The Hamburg-Berlin section is slated for closure from August 2025, with a projected duration of nine months.

The German government supports this extensive renovation program, recognizing its potential to transform Deutsche Bahn into a more efficient and reliable railway system.

While the Riedbahn closure brings temporary challenges, it paves the way for a more robust and future-proof German rail network.