Deutsche Bahn: Longer travel times between North Rhine-Westphalia and Berlin due to renovation

Travel time on Deutsche Bahn between North Rhine-Westphalia and Berlin via Hanover will increase by almost an hour and a half starting in October for around 14 months. The reason is a new diversion concept for the period during the general overhaul of the Berlin–Lehrte route, the details of which Deutsche Bahn has presented.

It provides for all long-distance trains between Berlin and Hanover to be diverted via Brunswick and Magdeburg. Connections between Berlin and North Rhine-Westphalia that run via Hanover are particularly affected. According to this, passengers must expect 80 minutes of additional travel time. Three long-distance trains per day in each direction are planned to run within a two-hour period.

Originally, some long-distance trains were scheduled to run directly between Berlin and Hanover again from the timetable change on December 13 – specifically via the trunk line running parallel to the high-speed line. However, the electrification of this alternative route currently underway is significantly delayed. According to DB, it will drag on until December 2027, taking a year longer than originally planned.

Berlin–Lehrte route to be closed until end of 2027

Between October of this year and December 2027, the approximately 227-kilometer-long Berlin–Lehrte route is to undergo extensive renovation and be completely closed for this purpose. Switches, tracks, and overhead lines will be renewed.

The general overhaul is intended to make long-distance transport on the heavily used route more punctual and reliable in the long term. For travelers, this will result in major restrictions, including in regional transport. However, DB states that it will provide a "reliable basic service." Regional trains would be guided as close as possible to the closed section of track. Replacement service with buses is also planned; a detailed concept is being drawn up.

Freight trains are also to be diverted via Brunswick and Magdeburg during the corridor renovation. From the end of January 2027, DB is also planning a second diversion route for freight transport via Brunswick and Halle.

Association of private freight railways criticizes total closure

The association of private freight railways criticized the announcement: "We roundly reject the plans presented by DB InfraGO. They were not properly consulted on with freight transport and are irresponsible," said association manager Peter Westenberger. "The total closure must be postponed in whole or in part if DB does not succeed in making the third track parallel to the high-speed line available as a diversion route."