Major Rail Upgrade Underway Between Berlin and Hamburg
A large-scale modernization project is currently underway on the heavily-trafficked railway line connecting Berlin and Hamburg, with significant disruptions expected until . The Deutsche Bahn (DB) is undertaking a complete overhaul of the 280-kilometer stretch of track, replacing rails, switches, and signaling systems.
The project is divided into three sections, or “Baulose,” according to DB InfraGO AG. Baulos 1 covers the area from Hamburg-Rothenburgsort to Büchen, spanning parts of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein. Baulos 2 extends from Büchen to Dergenthin, primarily within Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with a small portion in Brandenburg. Finally, Baulos 3 runs from Dergenthin to Berlin-Spandau, encompassing areas of Brandenburg and Berlin.
A key piece of equipment being utilized in the renovation is the “Büffel” (Buffalo) rapid construction train, officially designated SUM 315. This specialized train is capable of quickly replacing old railway sleepers with new ones. On , journalists were invited to a construction site near Nauen to observe the “Büffel” in operation. A similar press event was held in Falkensee on , showcasing work on the track’s upper structure.
The “Büffel” is described as an imposing machine, measuring 110 meters in length and weighing 450 tons. It operates by lifting the existing rails, replacing the sleepers underneath, and then lowering the rails onto the new infrastructure – all in a continuous process. According to reports, the train can replace approximately 1,000 meters of track per workday.
The scale of the project is substantial, with over 1,000 workers currently involved in the renovations. The complete closure of the line between Berlin and Hamburg, lasting from to , means no passenger or freight traffic will be able to use the route during this period. This disruption is already prompting many to recognize their reliance on rail transport.
Deutsche Bahn is attempting to maintain transparency throughout the process, holding bi-weekly site visits for the public and media. Julian Fassing, the project leader for the modernization, has been leading these tours, explaining the work being done and the improvements being made.
The “Büffel” is part of a suite of specialized machinery employed by DB Bahnbau Gruppe, which also includes the “Mammut” (SUM 314) rapid construction train, as well as various cleaning machines, material handling units, and rail cranes. The company also utilizes specialized rail milling and grinding trains to ensure the track is smooth and safe.
The modernization project represents a significant investment in Germany’s rail infrastructure. While the temporary closure of the Berlin-Hamburg line will undoubtedly cause inconvenience, DB officials say the long-term benefits – including increased reliability, speed, and capacity – will be substantial.
