DB begins 1.6 billion euro expansion of Hanau-Gelnhausen line
In a bid to fortify the rail system in Hesse, Deutsche Bahn (DB) has embarked on a 1.6 billion euro project to expand the 23-kilometre-long Hanau–Gelnhausen line to four tracks. The initiative, aimed at enhancing both passenger and freight transportation, received its official commencement during an on-site gathering in Gelnhausen on Monday.
The expansion, a critical component of the Federal Transport Infrastructure Plan’s urgent requirements, is set to provide separate lanes for passenger and freight trains, ensuring more reliable services in the future. Indeed, “There are currently only two tracks in Kinzigtal, which in the long term will no longer be able to accommodate the ever-increasing demand for rail transport,” states Michael Theurer, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Digital Affairs and Transport and Federal Government Commissioner for Rail Transport.
The federal government is financing the project, which is expected to significantly alleviate existing bottlenecks in the rail network. Berthold Huber, DB Infrastructure Director commented “With the four-track expansion of the line between Hanau and Gelnhausen, we are resolving a bottleneck in the rail network that has existed for many years.” As part of the expansion, all six transportation stations along the route will undergo modernization to enhance comfort and accessibility for travellers. Additionally, measures are being implemented to create over 30 kilometres of new noise protection barriers, benefiting residents along the route.
Upon completion, the expanded line will see long-distance and freight trains utilising the inner tracks, while local transport will operate on the outer tracks. The project is scheduled for full commissioning in 2036. The initiative has been marked by constructive dialogue with the region since its inception, with stakeholders collaborating to address various concerns and optimise the project’s design. Additionally, parallel efforts are underway to expand the route from Gelnhausen to Fulda, further enhancing the region’s rail infrastructure.
“Breaking records”
The four-track expansion of the Hanau–Gelnhausen line is part of the Frankfurt RheinMain plus infrastructure development program, aimed at bolstering capacity and quality in rail transport and facilitating the transition to climate-friendly transportation.
According to Professor Knut Ringat, Managing Director and Chairman of the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund, “We are breaking records this year when it comes to expansion and new lines. With the expansion between Hanau and Gelnhausen and the subsequent planned new line from Gelnhausen to Fulda, we are making local transport in East Hesse highly attractive and setting the course for greater quality and punctuality through tracks that are separate from freight and long-distance transport – for our currently more than 20,000 passengers on the route.”
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