- Major criticalities on SZCZ network, in particular in the Ostrava region: As far as the main line Ostrava-Svinov – Bohumín – Dětmarovice is concerned, which has been closed because of flood since 14 September 2024, we are glad to inform you that it will be re-opened from
14:00 tomorrow (28 September). Transit traffic for freight trains will be possible again from that time on towards Polandvia other border points different from Bohumin-Chalupki which is still closed. Main criticalities remains for passenger trains. - SZCZ expects to be able share further updates next Friday.
- ZSR: For traffic to Slovakia from the Chech network, all border lines are still operational.
- ÖBB-I network: More Capacity Created for Freight Transport
As of September 28, 2024, from 8:00 AM, the route between Tulln an der Donau via Tullnerfeld to Herzogenburg can be reopened for freight traffic. This will allow additional freight trains to operate during the day on the Danube axis, in addition to those on the ‘old West route’ at night. This solution will bring up to 75% of the usual capacity for freight traffic, compared to the previous 25%. This ensures the continued supply security of Austrian and European industry.
In addition to reopening specific routes, efforts are being made to reroute freight traffic on a larger scale where possible, for example via the Semmering or the Pyhrn routes. This depends on factors such as the weight and size of the freight, as these routes involve tunnel passages with strict limits.
Impact of the Flooding on Freight Transport
Freight transport is still massively affected by the restrictions following the floods in Austria and neighbouring countries such as Poland, Czechia, Romania, and Hungary, with Italy (Emilia Romagna) now impacted as well. Entire transport corridors have been rendered impassable due to floods and landslides. Although some routes have been reopened, a significant number of sections remain closed, both nationally and internationally.
Delays and Backlog in Freight Traffic
The situation has made freight transport extremely difficult, with hundreds of trains currently at a standstill, particularly at the borders, where traffic has come to a complete halt. The backlog and processing of freight traffic are expected to take some time, leading to extended delays.
- Impact on DB InfraGO network: The above disruption in Austria still has an impact on cross-border traffic via Passau and Salzburg. In particular, there are criticalities on the German-Austrian borders where several trains are parked and cannot run. DB InfraGO and ÖBB-I have been in close contact with each other in order to mitigate the situation.
We will keep our stakeholders informed about the further proceedings.