Five-Month Overhaul of Key Frankfurt-Mannheim Rail Line Aimed at Major Infrastructure Upgrade

Germany's Deutsche Bahn will shut down the key Frankfurt-Mannheim rail corridor for five months to implement a €1.3 billion upgrade. This move is crucial as the current infrastructure is congested, affecting the broader 33,000-kilometre network. The project aims to reduce delays significantly and improve travel experiences.

Germany's state railways will on Monday begin a significant five-month closure of a primary line connecting the financial hub of Frankfurt with the south to execute a €1.3 billion ($1.4 billion) infrastructure upgrade.

The tracks between Frankfurt and Mannheim are notably congested, leading to delays that ripple through Germany's extensive 33,000-kilometre (20,000-mile) network and affect international routes to Switzerland and France. The issue has been highlighted during the Euro 2024 soccer tournament, with fans voicing concerns about crowded trains and travel disruptions.

While Deutsche Bahn has modernised its fleet with numerous high-speed ICE trains, much of the physical infrastructure, including tracks and signal boxes, demands significant upgrades. As of June, only half of all long-distance trains were punctual. Deutsche Bahn plans to invest €1.3 billion in this project, up from an initial estimate of €500 million, to refurbish 140 kilometres of tracks, overhaul 20 stations, and replace over 150 switches. The aim is to reduce disruptions on main lines by 80%. Next year, Berlin-Hamburg will undergo similar renovations.

(With inputs from agencies.)