Rail services between Düsseldorf and Cologne remain suspended until 16th September.
Updated Aug 11, 2023: Thieves have stolen overhead lines in a one-kilometer stretch between Langenfeld and Leverkusen, as reported by Deutsche Bahn (DB). This theft has critically hindered construction work, causing delays that necessitate the rescheduling of in-service and safety technology tests. Consequently, train services for S-Bahn, Regional Express, and long-distance trains are anticipated to resume only by September 15 or 16.
DB is persistently working on expanding the Rhein-Ruhr-Express (RRX) tracks and facilities. Since some time ago, replacement buses have been in operation for the S6 between the main station and Langenfeld, and starting from July 28, Regional Express lines RE1 and RE5 will no longer halt in Benrath. Disruptions to both local and long-distance transportation services are likely to persist until September 8.
Changes for passengers between July 28 (21:00) and September 8 (21:00)
S6: Between Düsseldorf main station and Cologne-Mülheim, the S6 line will not be operational. Instead, buses will transport passengers in two stages: first from Düsseldorf main station to Langenfeld, followed by a connection to Cologne-Mülheim via replacement express buses between Leverkusen Mitte and Langenfeld, as well as between Langenfeld and Düsseldorf-Benrath.
RE1 (RRX, National Express): The RE1 line will be re-routed, removing stops at Düsseldorf-Benrath and Leverkusen Mitte, as they will only halt in Opladen. Buses will provide rail replacement services between Düsseldorf main station and Cologne-Mülheim.
RE5 (RRX, National Express): The RE5 line will be re-routed, canceling stops at Düsseldorf-Benrath, Leverkusen Mitte, Cologne-Mülheim, Cologne Messe/Deutz, and Cologne main station. Instead, trains will stop in Neuss main station and Dormagen. Rail replacement buses will also operate between Düsseldorf main station and Cologne-Mülheim.
Long-distance traffic: Trains on long-distance routes will be re-routed between Cologne and Düsseldorf/Dortmund via Hilden/Solingen, causing travel times to extend approximately 20 minutes. Some trains may be canceled on specific sections.
Background
The schedule for the RRX's next construction phase, which involves the installation of new switches between S-Bahn and mainline tracks, and the development of a new electronic control center, has been affected by additional replacement of 5,000 sleepers in the S-Bahn area, time-consuming bomb detection under the bridge on Rathenaustraße in Leverkusen, and equipment supply issues. For updates, passengers are advised to consult official DB online information systems, available at train stations, bauinfos.deutschebahn.com/nrw, and the "DB Bauarbeiten" app.
- During this period, finance may be affected for Deutsche Bahn (DB) as the theft of overhead lines and subsequent delays in transportation services could lead to loss of revenue due to reduced service offerings for S-Bahn, Regional Express, and long-distance trains.
- The delayed completion of the Rhein-Ruhr-Express (RRX) project, caused by issues like theft, bomb detection, and equipment supply problems, might impact the overall progress of the industry, potentially delaying its scheduled arrival and expansion plans in the finance and transportation sectors.
