Construction work on the Halle–Kassel line begins: Disruptions until December

First closure between Berga-Kelbra and Nordhausen

Abellio pointed out that travel times will in some cases be significantly extended due to replacement services. The company recommends that travellers check current connections before starting their journey and switch to other means of transport if necessary.

According to railway information, around 625 million euros will be invested in track systems, new signalling technology, and the barrier-free expansion of Lutherstadt Eisleben station by the end of 2028. The investment is part of a comprehensive modernisation of the Halle-Kassel railway line, which has been underway since 2024.

625 million euros for modernisation by 2028

Deutsche Bahn already announced in June that section-by-section closures would occur starting in July. With construction beginning on 14 July, this timetable has now been put into practice. The measure is one of the largest modernisation projects on the connection between Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, and Hesse in recent years.

During the entire construction period until December 2026, replacement buses will be in operation between the affected stations. They are intended to ensure basic service on the route but cannot fully replace the capacity of rail transport. Passengers must expect delays and overcrowded buses.

Replacement buses and recommendations for passengers

In addition to the Berga-Kelbra–Nordhausen section, further partial closures are planned along the line in the coming months. According to Deutsche Bahn, it intends to communicate in good time which sections will be closed and when. Passengers are asked to check the electronic displays and the rail app.

The modernisation includes the replacement of tracks, the renewal of signalling technology, and the barrier-free conversion of Lutherstadt Eisleben station. The aim is to make the line more capable in the long term and better usable for passengers with limited mobility.

Despite the burdens on ongoing operations, both Deutsche Bahn and Abellio emphasise that the work is necessary to make the outdated corridor fit for the coming decades. Commuters, however, must prepare for several months of restrictions.