Smooth Operation of Alternate Transport Links between Hamburg and Berlin on Trains - Stable alternate train traffic between Hamburg and Berlin remains consistent
The Berlin-Hamburg railway line is set for a significant overhaul, with construction commencing on August 1, 2025, and lasting approximately nine months until April 30, 2026 [1][2][3]. This extensive renovation will impact the entire 174-mile (280 km) main corridor, including sections passing through Wittenberge and Stendal, and affect around 470 trains daily, both passenger and freight.
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is spearheading the renovation, which involves upgrading over 180 km of track, modernizing signaling with new interlocking technology, replacing about 200 switches, and building six grade-separated junctions to improve freight flow [1]. Branch lines connected to the main route, such as Wittenberge–Perleberg–Osterburg, are also part of the upgrade scope.
The closure of the rail line necessitates a significant detour for intercity passenger trains on this key route, with freight trains being rerouted even farther [3]. To maintain connections for intermediate stops like Wittenberge and Stendal, DB is deploying roughly 170 replacement buses daily to serve regional traffic and ensure mobility despite lost train service. However, the complexity of construction and alternative transport arrangements is expected to cause disruptions and longer travel times [3].
This project forms part of the largest railway infrastructure renewal in Germany, aiming to address aging infrastructure issues on this crucial and heavily traveled line that carries about 30,000 passengers daily. Yet, it is accompanied by operational challenges, such as staffing shortages and passenger frustrations around delays and changes in service patterns during the closure period [3][4].
Long-distance traffic is running according to plan during the renovation, while the replacement traffic is reportedly running stably, according to the railway company [3]. DB and provider Ecovista will collect feedback and make adjustments in the coming days. Passengers in regional traffic are dependent on buses during the renovation.
ICE and IC trains have been rerouted via Stendal and Uelzen since Friday evening, adding about 45 minutes to their usual journey time [5]. Construction work involves the dismantling of cables, switch drives, and magnets for controlling signals. Construction trains are bringing tons of rails, sleepers, and ballast from approximately 130 construction sites along the line to the places where the material is needed.
The replacement traffic for regional traffic consists of 170 vehicles on 28 lines, ensuring minimal disruption to local services despite the closure of the main line. As the renovation progresses, passengers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra time for travel.
- In the context of the Berlin-Hamburg railway line reconstruction, Deutsche Bahn (DB) is also planning to implement vocational training programs for its staff to address potential operational challenges, such as staff shortages, during the renovation period.
- To mitigate the financial impact on local businesses along the affected sections of the Berlin-Hamburg railway line, the community has formulated a policy to provide subsidies for vocational training in industries like transportation and logistics, thus helping businesses adapt to the temporary closure and changes in freight transportation routes.
