Stuttgart 21: Chaos from 2024! Train pulls emergency brake when changing

Stuttgart 21: Chaos from 2024! Train pulls emergency brake when changing

A turnaround in the plans for the controversial Stuttgart 21 project is imminent. Deutsche Bahn has changed the original plans for the new underground station, and that can be seen as positive. Loud Schwäbische.de This decision potentially averts the chaos that could ensue in the months leading up to the planned start of operations in 2026.

The challenges facing commuters in Stuttgart should not be underestimated. In the coming year, replacement rail services and missed connections must be expected, which would probably mean that many of those affected could increasingly switch to cars. This development would put additional strain on the already stressed roads.

Tunneling as progress

An equally important aspect is the completion of the tunnel excavation for Stuttgart 21. How deutschebahn.com reported that all tunnels in the project were successfully excavated. In total, the length of the tunnels dug is an impressive 56 kilometers. The last tunnel breakthrough was celebrated in the new airport tunnel, which was a significant success for the planners and construction industry.

But the project has not shaken off its negative image due to rapid cost increases, which have risen from the initial estimate of 2.6 billion euros to over 11.4 billion euros. The uncertainties surrounding full travel operations have made many skeptical. However, before the complete improvements, such as the connection from Lake Constance to Stuttgart Airport without having to change at the main train station, can be implemented, numerous construction sites must be dealt with in the coming year.

A look into the future

Despite all adversities, a gradual start is expected in December 2026, with some of the regional connections expected to be operational by July 2027. The new route could make travel times easier for passengers. The communities of Merklingen, Laichinger Alb and Upper Swabia in particular benefit from shortened travel times in regional and long-distance transport.

Overall, however, there are also concerns about the project's impact on the environment. Critics warn of the consequences for groundwater quality and the loss of green spaces in the Stuttgart area. The planned changes could have a significant impact on the city's development, especially considering the estimated 100 hectares of new housing and the approximately 24,000 new jobs that the modernization is expected to create.

Overall, it is clear that Stuttgart 21, despite all the challenges and protests, represents an important project for traffic planning and urban development in Germany. The importance of modern infrastructure for the future remains undisputed, and the project could be a visible expression of Europe's interconnectedness, as well wikipedia.org confirmed.