Germany's rail infrastructure holds untapped potential, with over 5,400 kilometers of dormant tracks awaiting reactivation. According to Allianz pro Schiene and the VDV, these rail lines could significantly enhance connectivity, particularly in medium-sized centers currently lacking rail services. Since 1994, efforts have successfully resumed operations on more than 1,300 kilometers of tracks, including the line between Bad Bentheim and Neuenhaus. Plans are set for further reactivations, such as the Trier West line and the Hesselberg Railway by 2024.
However, progress remains sluggish due to insufficient funding and cumbersome administrative procedures. Despite these challenges, the associations emphasize the benefits, with 379 cities and towns, comprising 3.8 million residents, standing to gain from restored rail access. The federal government supports up to 90% of reactivation costs through the Gemeindeverkehrsfinanzierungsgesetz, recently increasing its budget to 2 billion euros.
The VDV and Allianz pro Schiene advocate for streamlined planning processes and a further increase in funding to 3 billion euros annually, starting in 2025. They recognize that reactivating rail lines alone won't solve Germany's economic and transport challenges but argue it's a crucial step toward improving the nation's transport network. The associations have identified 74 potential tracks for reactivation, amounting to 949 kilometers, yet only 21 kilometers were revitalized in 2023.
As the need for efficient and sustainable transportation grows, Germany faces an urgent call to accelerate rail reactivations, offering both economic and environmental benefits. With strategic investments and policy support, the country can leverage its dormant rail lines to enhance mobility and reduce road congestion.
