Washing, sieving, shaking: The largest railway construction site in NRW - Deutsche Bahn's Massive Rail Overhaul Nears Completion in North Rhine-Westphalia

Deutsche Bahn is carrying out its largest rail upgrade in North Rhine-Westphalia by overhauling the 65-kilometre route between Cologne and Hagen. The heavily used line has been closed for over five months, with work expected to finish by 10 July.

The project involves replacing 81 kilometres of track and renewing 50 sets of switches. Additionally, 29 kilometres of overhead lines are being upgraded, and a new ballast bed is being installed using an 800-metre-long specialised train.

Twelve stations along the route are being modernised, and noise barriers are being added to reduce sound disruption. To minimise delays, construction is taking place at multiple points simultaneously. While the line remains closed, passengers are using alternative routes, diversions, and rail replacement services. Partial cancellations have been in place since February and will continue until the project's completion in July 2026.

Once finished, the upgraded route should offer improved reliability and performance. Fewer disruptions and delays are expected, benefiting both regional and long-distance travellers. The modernised infrastructure aims to enhance daily operations on this key connection.