Prolonged Restrictions on Travel between Berlin and Halle Elicit Dissent from Passenger Organization
Commuters on the Anhalter Bahn between Berlin and Halle (Saale) should brace themselves for significant disruptions starting September 24. The disruptions are due to a long-term construction project that will last until December 13, affecting connections not only between Berlin and Halle, but also Berlin and Munich, as well as Frankfurt, and some regional services.
The construction work, which was announced by the railway company in February, involves the renewal of 60 kilometers of track and ten switches between Berlin-Südkreuz and Jüterbog. Despite the extensive nature of the project, the S-Bahn is not affected by the construction work.
In response to these long-term restrictions, Pro Bahn Berlin/Brandenburg, an independent and non-profit passenger association representing the interests of rail passengers in the Berlin and Brandenburg region, has criticized the communication of the consequences for passengers. They point out unexplained extensions of full closures without adequate information to customers, question the speed and management of the construction work, and call for a reliable construction schedule and a transparent overview for passengers.
To mitigate the impact of the construction work, replacement bus services will be offered for some regional services. However, the stops at Lutherstadt Wittenberg and Berlin-Südkreuz will be omitted during this period, and long-distance trains are expected to take up to an hour longer.
The criticism from Pro Bahn Berlin/Brandenburg is not isolated. There has been a general outcry regarding these long-term restrictions, with many expressing dissatisfaction with the rail communication. Pro Bahn Berlin/Brandenburg stated that "surprise closures over several months are unacceptable."
Despite the challenges, the railway company has incorporated the changes into digital timetables and information channels to keep passengers informed. As the construction work continues, it is hoped that the rail company will address the concerns raised by Pro Bahn Berlin/Brandenburg and improve communication with passengers to ensure a smoother journey during this period of disruption.
