Schwerin in a train traffic jam: massive closures and diversions from August!

Schwerin in a train traffic jam: massive closures and diversions from August!

From August 1, 2025, there will be extensive restrictions on the Hamburg-Berlin railway line. As part of a general renovation, this traffic route will be completely closed until April 30, 2026. This means that a whole year will be dominated by construction sites and diversions, which poses major challenges for travelers and commuters. [Stern] reports that the renovation work will lead to an additional closure of the Schwerin railway junction, which will come into force from August 1st, 9:00 p.m. to August 4th, 3:00 a.m.

This rail junction is a central point in the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania rail network and enables connections in numerous directions. Due to the construction work, the regional train line RB17, which runs from Wismar via Schwerin to Ludwigslust, will only be able to travel to the Schwerin Süd stop. Commuters can also expect some changes: The special train RE85, which runs from Schwerin via Bad Kleinen and Güstrow to Berlin, will be replaced by buses between Schwerin main station and Bad Kleinen during the closure. Anyone who wants to use the RB13 from Rehna to Parchim must also expect bus diversions, as the connection between Rehna and Plate cannot be served.

Details about the renovation and timetable changes

The renovation will be accompanied by additional bus connections to compensate for the loss of train connections. Up to 173 buses are planned daily, which will cover a total of up to 86,000 kilometers on 26 routes. The buses are barrier-free and offer amenities such as WiFi and power sockets. The contract for this replacement service goes to the company Ecovista. [NDR] recommends carpooling as a sensible alternative for commuters, who will be particularly affected on weekends.

In addition, long-distance trains between Hamburg and Berlin will be rerouted via Uelzen and Stendal. This means that stops in Büchen, Ludwigslust and Wittenberge are no longer available, while additional stops are offered in Salzwedel and Stendal. Travelers have to be prepared for longer journey times, which are extended by an average of 45 minutes.

Marcel Drews, the chairman of Pro Bahn in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, is surprised by this uncoordinated measure and points out that commuters in particular will suffer from these changes. “There’s something going on,” he says, making it clear that the situation becomes particularly sensitive for many travelers on the weekends.

Overall, the general renovation of the railway line is an important step for the future of the transport infrastructure in the region. The focus on improving the control and safety technology as well as the necessary software tests in the Schwerin signal box are essential to ensuring smooth and safe operations in the future. However, travelers are well advised to find out about the new connections and courses in good time. All relevant information is available in the electronic timetable information from Deutsche Bahn and the transport associations.