Hamburg-Berlin rail route: largest replacement service and 5G innovation route

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is planning what it claims to be the largest replacement service in Germany for the duration of the general renovation of the Hamburg-Berlin railroad line. To maintain local transport services, up to 173 buses will be in operation at peak times, running on 26 routes and covering a total of up to 86,000 kilometers a day, according to a statement. The state-owned company also confirmed plans to upgrade the line to a 5G innovation line for mobile communications with gigabit data rates as part of the refurbishment.

The nine-month general refurbishment, which necessitates a full closure of the ICE line, is part of Deutsche Bahn's efforts to become more punctual, reliable and profitable. The nationwide refurbishment program for main lines began with the conversion of the Riedbahn between Frankfurt am Main and Mannheim. The line between Hamburg and Berlin is to be renewed between August 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026. Around 180 kilometers of track, 200 points, overhead lines and control and safety technology are to be replaced, and six new transfer points installed to allow slower trains to overtake. In addition, 28 stations will be rebuilt.

Radio masts for rail radio FRMCS

During the construction phase, long-distance and freight trains will use diversionary routes. While long-distance trains will use the western corridor via Lüneburg, Uelzen, Salzwedel and Stendal, freight trains will be diverted further afield. This will increase the journey time for passenger trains by 45 minutes. Up to 65 journeys a day are planned, including 36 direct connections. Except a few lines, local and regional services will be operated by replacement buses.

The refurbishment will also be accompanied by technical modernization. The first sections near Hamburg and Berlin are to be equipped with the new European Train Control System (ETCS). DB plans to erect radio masts for the FRMCS (Future Rail Mobile Communication System) along the entire route. After the refurbishment, masts and supply containers as well as power and data lines will be made available to mobile communications companies for open-technology testing and illumination of the route with mobile communications for passengers.

(mki)