The CFL (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Luxembourgeois) revealed their infrastructure, maintenance, and upgrade program for 2024. “The new record number of passengers on our trains in 2023, 28.7 million, encourages us to continue our efforts to modernise, with the ambition of being the first choice for the public when it comes to transport,” says Marc Wengler, Chief Executive Officer of CFL.

CFL’s efforts to enhance railway infrastructure include the addition of new capacities such as extended platforms and tracks at strategic stations across the network, enabling the operation of longer trains with increased seating capacity (up to 9 cars). They are also establishing multimodal exchange hubs throughout the country, optimising traffic flow at relevant stations by reducing train crossings from different lines and relieving congestion on heavily travelled sections.

Track works

The transformation of Rodange station into a multimodal exchange hub for the southwest region nears completion, with upgrades including additional platforms and realigned tracks to improve operational efficiency and punctuality. The evolution of Howald station into a strategic multimodal hub for western Luxembourg City is also ongoing and includes the construction of additional platforms and tracks to accommodate increased traffic demand.

In 2024, CFL will proceed with the renewal of 21.6 km of track (including five kilometres between Mamer and Bertrange), and the laying of 33,900 sleepers and 54 switches. Construction progresses on the new Luxembourg-Bettembourg railway line, which promises a 50% increase in seating capacity and improved service frequency upon completion in 2028. “The new multimodal interchange hubs being developed at strategic stations across the country, the new dual-track railway line between Luxembourg and Bettembourg, and the extension and even redevelopment of the country’s main rail links, show our commitment to adapting our offer to tomorrow’s mobility needs,” explains Alain Bombardella, Head of CFL’s Infrastructure Management Department.

Maintenance works, including track renewal and level crossing removals, underscore CFL’s dedication to ensuring safety and comfort for passengers. In 2024, CFL’s maintenance efforts include the renewal or refurbishment of 21.6 kilometres of tracks, along with the replacement of 33,900 sleepers and 54 track devices. The introduction of the “Info Travaux” interactive tool on CFL’s website and mobile app provides customers with personalised updates on construction activities and their impact on travel plans.

Level crossings

Continuing their commitment to safety, CFL is pressing forward with their level crossing (PN) removal program. These crossings remain potentially hazardous points where road and rail networks intersect. On average, CFL eliminates one to two level crossings per year. In 2023, crossings like PN 20b in Lorentzweiler were removed, with barrier-free access ensured through lift installation at the Lorentzweiler stop. A temporary footbridge was also erected at PN118a, slated for removal in 2024. As of December 31, 2023, there were 112 level crossings. In 2024, CFL plans to eliminate two more crossings, PN 117 and PN 118a in Colmar-Usines, enhancing access security for local industry and surrounding infrastructure.

New rolling stock

The Coradia Stream High Capacity trains are set to increase seating capacity by 46% by 2025, with the gradual introduction of 34 new trains. The approval for single-unit operation (3 cars) has been finalised in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg, with ongoing approvals in progress. Additionally, technical and functional upgrades are underway for 10 TER2N-ng trains, with two of these trains having already undergone mid-life refurbishment and are currently in service. These refurbishment works are being carried out by the SNCF’s Saint-Pierre-des-Corps technicenter, in France.

“Work is being carried out in anticipation of the arrival of our new Coradia Stream High Capacity rail cars. Capacity railcars and the lengthening of our existing trains to offer our customers even more seats,” explains Marc Hoffmann, Director of Passenger Activities at CFL. “Thanks to the 34 new Coradia railcars that will gradually be brought into service from the end of the first half of 2024, we will be able to increase our seating capacity by 46% by 2025-2026. Coradia’s multiple units (3×3 cars) will be able to accommodate up to 1,000 customers per train. However, one of the sine qua non-conditions for increasing this capacity was to extend the platforms at the country’s main stations by up to 250 metres”.

Further reading:

• CFL sets new passenger record with 28.7 million travellers in 2023
• Belgium and Luxembourg request EU funding for better cross-border rail
• Luxembourg Schieburg tunnel to reopen this summer after year-long closure