The German Federal Ministry of Transport continues to delay providing a timeline for the full operationalization of the European Train Control System (ETCS) on the Riedbahn railway line, more than a year after its extensive refurbishment. This protracted delay raises serious questions about the efficacy and future viability of Germany’s ambitious “general refurbishment” programs, designed to overhaul entire rail infrastructure simultaneously.
According to a response to a parliamentary inquiry by Green Party MP Matthias Gastel, reported by the Tagesspiegel, the northern section of the Riedbahn remains without ETCS functionality due to an incomplete safety assessment of the system’s software. “Acceptance trials” designated as critical tests, are now scheduled for mid-February, but the duration of the subsequent commissioning process remains undefined.
The absence of ETCS presently compels high-speed trains to operate at a reduced speed of 160 kilometers per hour, resulting in delays of approximately two minutes per journey. This performance is significantly slower than speeds achieved prior to the Riedbahn’s extensive renovations, directly undermining the government’s promises of enhanced efficiency and faster travel times.
Matthias Gastel has voiced growing skepticism regarding the value of these comprehensive refurbishments, arguing that the promises associated with them consistently fail to materialize. He criticizes the perceived inability of Deutsche Bahn and its industry partners to implement ETCS on the Riedbahn within a reasonable timeframe, suggesting the delay casts a damaging light on future infrastructure projects.
“The current situation raises fundamental questions about the strategy underpinning these ambitious overhauls” Gastel stated. He insists that to justify the substantial disruption and cost involved, general refurbishments must demonstrably reduce operational failures and ensure the complete implementation of essential systems like ETCS. He has called for the expedited deployment of ETCS on the Riedbahn, demanding continuous operation without further closures and a firm, publicly announced timeline for its full implementation. The ongoing saga highlights a critical need for greater transparency, accountability and realistic project management within Germany’s rail infrastructure modernization program.