The Bremen-Hamburg railway line has partially reopened following an incident on Monday that involved damage to an overhead line, a train evacuation, and a fire. While one track remains closed due to the presence of the evacuated train, services are now running at reduced speeds between Buchholz and Tostedt near Sprötze. However, passengers should still expect significant delays and cancellations on both regional and long-distance routes.
Metronom train evacuated, fire extinguished
The incident occurred on Monday evening when the driver of a Metronom train noticed damage to the overhead line and initiated an emergency stop. Subsequently, train personnel observed smoke in the locomotive and a fire on the embankment. Approximately 500 to 600 passengers were evacuated from the train and transported by bus. The fire was successfully extinguished by the fire brigade.
According to a Metronom spokesperson, the exact connection between the overhead line damage, the smoke in the train, and the embankment fire is currently unclear and is under investigation. The affected track remains closed as the evacuated train is still on site.
Impact on rail traffic
The partial reopening of the line allows trains to operate, but at a reduced speed, leading to ongoing disruptions. Both Metronom services and Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance connections are affected. Travellers are advised to check for current information regarding their journeys.
Investigation underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident to determine how the various elements-the damaged overhead line, the smoke, and the fire-are related. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
