According to DB InfraGO, the first phase has covered large sections of the superstructure, including the renewal of 164 km of track, 241 switches, 270 signals, 25 km of overhead line and 12 platforms, as well as the installation of 5 km of noise barriers. New switch connections and crossovers have also been added to increase operational flexibility during disruptions.
With the superstructure works largely completed, the next phase will concentrate on signalling and interlocking technology. This includes connecting more than 1,000 individual technical assets to upgraded interlocking systems. In total, around 740 km of cabling is being installed to link components such as 678 signals, 224 point machines and axle counters to 27 interlockings. Once installed, the systems will undergo multi-stage testing and approval procedures.
In parallel, extensive works are continuing at 28 stations along the route. Depending on the location, these include platform extensions, platform height adjustments to enable step-free access, longer platform canopies and tactile guidance systems. At 20 stations, broader upgrades are planned, covering redesigned passenger underpasses, additional seating and waiting areas, and expanded bicycle parking facilities.
The Hamburg–Berlin line, which is 278 km long and carries around 470 regional, long-distance and freight trains per day, is one of Germany’s most heavily used corridors. The overall overhaul is scheduled to continue until 30 April, when construction works on the route are due to conclude.
FACT BOX — Hamburg–Berlin Railway Overhaul
- Route length: 278 km
- Construction start: 1 August
- Current status: First construction phase nearing completion
- Main focus of Phase 1: Track and superstructure renewal New switches and crossovers
- Track and superstructure renewal
- New switches and crossovers
- Works completed / underway: 164 km of track renewed 241 switches replaced 270 signals upgraded 25 km of overhead line renewed 12 platforms modernised 5 km of noise barriers installed
- 164 km of track renewed
- 241 switches replaced
- 270 signals upgraded
- 25 km of overhead line renewed
- 12 platforms modernised
- 5 km of noise barriers installed
- Next phase focus: Signalling and interlocking systems ~740 km of cabling Connection of ~1,000 technical assets to 27 interlockings
- Signalling and interlocking systems
- ~740 km of cabling
- Connection of ~1,000 technical assets to 27 interlockings
- Stations affected: 28 stations under construction 20 stations undergoing broader modernisation
- 28 stations under construction
- 20 stations undergoing broader modernisation
- Traffic during works: Long-distance trains diverted via Uelzen and Stendal More than 170 replacement buses on 25+ routes daily
- Long-distance trains diverted via Uelzen and Stendal
- More than 170 replacement buses on 25+ routes daily
- Traffic volume (pre-works): ~470 passenger and freight trains per day
- Planned completion: 30 April
