Orbe-Chavornay Train Line: Closure & History
- The Orbe-Chavornay rail line in the Swiss canton of Vaud is undergoing a complete modernization project, aiming to seamlessly connect the towns of Orbe and Chavornay, and their...
- Work commenced several weeks prior to December 13, 2023, and encompasses improvements to the line itself, station upgrades, and the construction of a new road bridge to facilitate...
- During the construction phase, passenger service will be maintained via replacement bus routes.
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Orbe-Chavornay Rail Line to Modernize, Integrate with Vaudois RER
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The Orbe-Chavornay rail line in the Swiss canton of Vaud is undergoing a complete modernization project, aiming to seamlessly connect the towns of Orbe and Chavornay, and their 8,000 residents, to the broader Vaudois RER (Réseau Express Régional) network. The project includes infrastructure upgrades and a shift in operational obligation.
Published December 13, 2023. Updated as needed.
Project Timeline and details
Work commenced several weeks prior to December 13, 2023, and encompasses improvements to the line itself, station upgrades, and the construction of a new road bridge to facilitate traffic flow over the railway. The entire project is budgeted at 100 million Swiss francs. Approximately 96% of the funding is coming from the swiss confederation, with the remaining 4% being covered by local municipalities and the Canton of Vaud. RTS reports that the project aims to provide a direct connection to the RER Vaud network as far as Renens, eliminating the need for transfers at Chavornay.
During the construction phase, passenger service will be maintained via replacement bus routes. the line is scheduled to reopen in early 2027,at which point operations will be assumed by the CFF (Swiss Federal Railways),replacing the current operator,Travys.
Farewell to the OC Trains
On Saturday, December 9, 2023, residents of orbe were invited to a farewell event for the OC trains, which will be decommissioned and sent for scrap. David Robert, director of Travys, marked the occasion as “the end of an era, but above all the begining of a new ambition,” according to a Travys press release. The final OC train was decorated with over 70 drawings created by students from Orbe and Chavornay.
Increased Ridership and Economic Benefits
In 2023, the Orbe-Chavornay line carried nearly 320,000 passengers. Project planners anticipate a significant increase in ridership following the modernization, with a target of between 400,000 and 500,000 passengers annually. The improvements are also expected to benefit freight traffic,especially for Nestlé,which operates a substantial facility in Orbe. Nestlé Switzerland is a major employer in the region.
The Vaudois RER: A Growing Network
The Vaudois RER is an expanding regional rail network designed to improve connectivity within the canton of Vaud and to surrounding areas. It aims to provide frequent, reliable, and integrated public transportation options. The integration of the Orbe-Chavornay line is a key component of this broader strategy. Further information about the RER Vaud can be found on the official RER Vaud website.