For cross-border rail transport and greater reliability: Digitale Schiene Deutschland introduces ETCS on the line between Flensburg and Maschen
On 31 August, Digitale Schiene Deutschland (DSD) will begin the comprehensive digitalisation of the 216-kilometre route between Flensburg and Maschen. As part of this project, we are equipping the line with the European Train Control System (ETCS), the standardised train control system throughout Europe. This measure will improve the connection to Europe's largest marshalling yard in Maschen as well as the connection to the Danish border, which is particularly important for freight traffic. The project thus contributes to the creation of a common European internal market. We are also renewing numerous interlockings and control units, such as level crossings. These measures will increase the punctuality of trains, reduce maintenance costs and thus increase reliability on the important link between Germany and Denmark.
The digitisation of the line between Flensburg and Maschen is being carried out in six localised sections. All sections will be realised in two construction phases. In the first construction phase, the interlocking technology along the line will be modernised. Existing interlockings will either be replaced by digital interlockings (DSTW) and electronic interlockings (ESTW) or technically upgraded so that they are compatible with ETCS. In the second construction phase, the line will then be equipped with ETCS. At present, many EU countries still have their own train control systems, which makes it difficult for trains to travel continuously across national borders. The introduction of ETCS will facilitate and speed up border crossings, as only one standardised technology will be used.
The first section runs between Flensburg and Nortorf. Work will begin here on Saturday, 31 August. In the first construction phase, four relay interlockings will be replaced by modern technical modules in the form of remote ESTW (ESTW-A). ESTW-A enable trains to be controlled from the central ESTW in Flensburg. In addition, 330 kilometres of cable will be laid, 180 new signals installed and six level crossings renewed. In the second construction phase, we are equipping the 90 kilometre section between Flensburg and Nortorf with ETCS. The 110-year-old Rendsburg high bridge will also be modernised. This work represents a particular challenge in this project due to the listed building status and special technical and structural challenges. In addition, the ETCS Radio Block Centre is being installed and around 1,075 balises for data transmission to the train are being laid in the track. Completion of the work in this section is planned for the end of 2027. According to current planning, the entire Flensburg - Maschen line should be digitised by 2030.
Click here for the official press release on the start of construction work Flensburg – Maschen.
