Germany's busy Hamburg-Hanover rail line reopens after renovations

Local and long-distance passenger trains were running again on Saturday between the northern German cities of Hamburg and Hanover after major renovation works. 

The entire route between the two cities had been closed to train traffic since May 1 during the work. 

The Hamburg-Hanover line is one of the busiest railway lines in Germany. It is vital for long-distance travel between northern and southern Germany, for commuters and for freight transport to and from the Port of Hamburg.

Long-distance and freight trains were diverted, whilst regional services were replaced by buses and limited train services on some sections of the route.

Freight services between the cities resumed overnight, a Deutsche Bahn spokesman confirmed.

Load tests will continue on the line in the coming days, with speed restrictions for long-distance trains remaining in some sections until the tests are completed. 

This will result in longer journey times for passengers, including on regional services, the network warned.

Initially, there was a speed restriction of 90 kilometres per hour, expected to be raised to 160 km/h for regional trains during Saturday.

Consequently, some trains are still running late, rail operator Metronom said. Passengers were advised to check the exact departure times of trains again before setting off. From Tuesday onwards, long-distance trains are also expected to return to their usual speeds.

In the past 10 weeks, 81 kilometres of track, 44 sets of points, four stations and two large railway bridges were renewed along the 163-kilometre route. According to Deutsche Bahn, a total of around €300 million ($342 million) was invested in the refurbishment.

With the recent improvements, Deutsche Bahn aims to consolidate urgent works before the line is due to undergo comprehensive refurbishment in 2029.