Munich, January 18 – Reinforcement trains on the U6 subway line continue to bypass the Harras station, a diversion that has been in effect since November. Initially, a local resident’s inquiry to the MVG about the reason for the diversion received a surprising response citing a nationwide driver shortage. However, the MVG has since clarified that the issue stems from a train derailment that occurred in June 2025, just after extensive renovation work on the U6 line.
MVG Clarifies Reason for Harras Diversion: June 2025 Derailment
Since November, U6 reinforcement trains have been rerouted to Brudermühlstraße because the turning facility at Harras cannot be used. A Munich resident, puzzled by the ongoing diversion, questioned the MVG, especially since the line had undergone a multi-month closure for renovation in 2025. The initial response he received, which was shared with Hallo München, attributed the problem to a “nationwide driver shortage” and even included a link to the MVG’s career portal.
However, MVG spokesman Maximilian Kaltner clarified in response to a Hallo München inquiry that the initial explanation was a misunderstanding. Kaltner stated that the restrictions at Harras are a direct consequence of a train derailment that took place in June 2025, shortly after the U6 renovation work was completed.
Turning Facility Awaiting Expert Report and Release
While the turning facility at Harras was repaired following the derailment, it is currently awaiting an expert report on the accident’s cause. This report is expected “shortly.” Once the report is available, Kaltner explained, “a component necessary for the release of the turning facility can be put out to tender.” Consequently, the full release of the facility and the resumption of normal service for reinforcement trains are not anticipated until the second half of 2026.
The incident in June 2025 occurred just after the U6 line had undergone significant renovation work, further exacerbating the frustration of commuters and residents who had anticipated improved service. The prolonged closure of the turning facility at Harras has impacted daily commutes for many, leading to longer travel times and reduced frequency of service on certain sections of the U6 line.
Impact on Commuters and Future Outlook
The diversion of reinforcement trains has primarily affected commuters who rely on the U6 line for their daily travel, particularly during peak hours. The absence of these additional trains can lead to overcrowded carriages and increased waiting times at stations. The MVG has not yet detailed specific alternative arrangements or additional services to mitigate the impact of the ongoing diversion, beyond the rerouting to Brudermühlstraße.
The delay in reopening the Harras turning facility underscores the complex procedures involved in ensuring the safety and operational integrity of public transport infrastructure. The need for a comprehensive expert report and the subsequent tendering process for necessary components highlight the stringent safety standards that must be met before the facility can be fully restored to service.
Residents and regular users of the U6 line will likely face continued disruptions until late 2026, when the MVG expects the turning facility at Harras to be fully operational again. The incident serves as a reminder of the intricate challenges involved in maintaining and operating a large urban subway network, where even a single event can have long-lasting effects on service.
Source: https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/hallo-muenchen/wendeanlage-muenchen-keine-u6-verstaerker-am-harras-laut-mvg-wegen-94122329.html
