Due to extensive renovation work, the rail line from Halle via Nordhausen to Leinefelde will be closed in several sections from July 14. Passengers will have to switch to buses in some cases for months and plan for significantly longer travel times.
Quick overview
This report is primarily relevant for rail travelers, as it may have concrete effects on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Deutsche Bahn, Thuringia, Saxony-Anhalt, line closure, rail replacement service, Abellio, rail line and construction site. The key points are summarized concisely below.
Key points
- First partial closure between Berga-Kelbra and Nordhausen from July 14 to 21.
- From July 24 to August 27, the closure between Halle (Saale) and Berga-Kelbra follows.
- From October 9 to December 12, the entire Leinefelde–Halle line is closed, and at the same time the RB 57 between Nordhausen and Leinefelde will be cancelled.
- Deutsche Bahn is investing around 625 million euros in new passing loops, electronic interlocking systems and 44 level crossings; Nordhausen station is also being renovated.
- The expansion, planned over four years, is to be completed by the end of 2028 and will improve punctuality and reduce interlocking failures.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, it is worth taking a close look at the time period, route and booking conditions. The key question is whether the report already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
The closures are part of a cross-state expansion of the Halle–Nordhausen–Leinefelde line costing around 625 million euros, which is to be completed by the end of 2028. Regional services operated by Abellio are affected.
What to watch now
- Check concrete timetable or construction information only once travel dates are set.
- Allow more generous connection times for international journeys.
- Keep an eye on source and operator information, in case dates are still provisional.