Mayor expresses the ongoing railway modernization as a laborious task
Wittenberge, Germany - The city is gearing up for a significant transformation as the Hamburg-Berlin railway line undergoes a comprehensive renovation, starting from August 1, 2025. This nine-month project, announced well in advance by Mayor Oliver Hermann, promises to modernise the 278-kilometer corridor, including over 180 km of track, 200 switches, six new grade-separated junctions, and upgrades to signaling systems and traffic control centres [1][2][3].
The renovation will have a substantial impact on Wittenberge station and its connecting lines. During the construction period, no train services will be possible on the Hamburg–Ludwigslust–Wittenberge–Berlin-Spandau line. This disruption will also affect regional train services in the surrounding districts, with stations on branching lines like Neustadt (Dosse) and Wittenberge closing [3].
To mitigate the disruption, a comprehensive replacement transport concept has been developed. Long-distance passenger trains between Hamburg and Berlin will be rerouted via alternative routes such as Stendal and Uelzen. Trains heading to and from Rostock and Stralsund will be diverted through Lübeck. Regional rail traffic in the affected areas will be replaced by a bus service with over 170 buses to cover the network gaps [2][3].
Passengers in Wittenberge can connect with these rerouted long-distance trains using the replacement bus services. However, it is not clear if these services will be available throughout the entire nine-month renovation period. Additionally, some regional train journeys may have significantly longer times due to the renovation [1][2][3].
Mayor Oliver Hermann, an independent politician, views the renovation as both an opportunity and a challenge for Wittenberge. He stated in an interview on RBB's "Inforadio" that the majority of commuters have found an individual solution regarding the construction work. The renovation includes the construction of a new platform in Wittenberge, which promises to improve the city's infrastructure [1].
Despite the challenges, Hermann sees the renovation as a significant opportunity for the future of Wittenberge. The upgrade aims to improve capacity and reliability on the Hamburg-Berlin railway line, ultimately benefiting the city and its residents [1].
For passengers planning travel during the renovation, real-time travel information and updates will be available through the DB Navigator app, bahn.de, and regional transit apps to assist them [2][3]. However, the renovation may impact the travel plans and convenience of passengers during the nine-month closure. It is recommended to plan journeys accordingly and check for updates regularly.
[1] RBB Inforadio interview with Mayor Oliver Hermann [2] DB Navigator app [3] bahn.de [4] Regional transit apps
- The renovation of the Hamburg-Berlin railway line, starting August 1, 2025, will affect various industries in Wittenberge, such as finance, transportation, and regional services, due to the nine-month closure of train services and the need for a replacement bus service.
- With the upgrade of the Hamburg-Berlin railway line, the finance and transportation industries in Wittenberge are expected to benefit from improved capacity and reliability, making the city more attractive for businesses and travelers in the future.
