{"id":178146,"date":"2025-02-20T23:04:51","date_gmt":"2025-02-20T13:04:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.railfreight.com\/?p=60043"},"modified":"2025-02-20T23:04:51","modified_gmt":"2025-02-20T13:04:51","slug":"sbb-announces-new-rail-tunnel-in-bern-to-boost-capacity-for-freight-and-passengers-alike","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vibewire.com.au\/?p=178146","title":{"rendered":"SBB announces new rail tunnel in Bern to boost capacity for freight and passengers alike"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Swiss state rail operator and infrastructure manager SBB is going to build a new rail tunnel in Bern. Even if it is only 440 metres in length, it should significantly boost capacity: Freight and passenger traffic will no longer have to wait for each other.<\/strong>
\n<\/span>\u201cThe core of the construction project is the new \u2018Wankdorf Tunnel\u2019, which is being built beneath the existing tracks\u201d, says SBB. Besides the tunnel, a fourth track will be built alongside other minor upgrades.<\/p>\n

\u201cSpecifically, the route from Bern to Wankdorf station will descend over a ramp of around 290 metres, lead through a tunnel of around 440 metres and then emerge again over a ramp of around 240 metres just before Ostermundigen.\u201d The project will cost the equivalent of 750,5 million euros.<\/p>\n

\u201cWith the new \u2018Wankdorf Tunnel\u2019, more trains can run on the route, as freight and passenger trains no longer travel on the same tracks and do not have to “wait for” each other\u201d SBB adds.<\/p>\n

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A visualisation of the changes to be made. Image: \u00a9 SBB<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Basel – Domodossola to benefit<\/h2>\n

The line between Bern Wankdorf and M\u00fcnsingen is currently operating at full capacity, the Swiss infrastructure manager explains. Separating freight and passenger traffic will significantly boost capacity. For freight, it would mean additional capacity between Bern and Thun, greater stability in the Bern area and between Basel and Domodossola, Italy.<\/p>\n

The earliest possible start date for the construction works is mid-2026, says SBB. The company expects the work to last for at least 13 years. \u201cThe long construction period is due to the extremely tight space conditions in the construction perimeter. The work is being carried out in the narrow corridor between the already very busy railway lines and the motorway bridge and while the railway is still in operation.\u201d<\/p>\n