New speed restrictions slow trains on rail diversion route

New speed restrictions have been introduced on the diversion route for trains affected by major works between Ingolstadt and Nuremberg, BR reported on Friday. The restrictions could add delays to journeys already lengthened by diversions and replacement buses.

At least six slow sections now cover a total of nine kilometres on the route via Treuchtlingen, according to Uwe Böhm, head of the GDL train drivers’ union in Bavaria. One additional restriction, in place since October 29, covers seven kilometres between Ingolstadt and Treuchtlingen, where trains must slow to 70 km/h. Some sections require trains to travel at as little as 40 km/h.

The RE1 service between Nuremberg, Ingolstadt and Munich is being diverted via Treuchtlingen or via Donauwörth and Augsburg while the 20-year-old high-speed line between Ingolstadt and Nuremberg undergoes work to replace tracks, switches and signalling equipment. Replacement buses serve the regional route, including stops at Allersberg and Kinding.

Böhm warned that timetable buffers planned for the diversions could be eroded by the restrictions and the extra use of the route by diverted passenger and heavy freight trains. The union estimates that about 20 additional trains a day may use the line, and fears more slow sections could be imposed in the coming weeks. Deutsche Bahn has not confirmed that estimate.

Deutsche Bahn said the diversion services had been fully taken into account in its operating and timetable plans, while acknowledging that individual disruptions cannot be ruled out. A train driver also told BR that an embankment near Tauberfeld was unstable and could slip further. Train drivers and unions said the diversion route should have been repaired before the closure, while stressing their support for the main line works.