Munich S-Bahn Main Line Reopens After Overhead Line Damage, Delays Expected
Munich, September 15 – The Munich S-Bahn main line, a vital connection between the east and west of the city, especially during peak commuter hours, was completely shut down for approximately two and a half hours this morning due to damage to the overhead line. The disruption, which occurred on the first day of school after the summer holidays, led to significant traffic chaos. Deutsche Bahn has announced that repair work on the overhead line between Pasing and Laim has been completed, and trains can now use all tracks. However, passengers are advised to anticipate continued delays and cancellations as services gradually resume.
Disruptions Expected Until Afternoon Peak Hours
The main line was closed in both directions between Pasing and Ostbahnhof from just before 8:00 AM. Deutsche Bahn later confirmed that a short circuit on a track between Laim and Pasing damaged the overhead line during an S-Bahn journey. The exact cause of the incident is still under investigation, but sabotage or inadequate maintenance have been ruled out as primary causes. It is believed that a combination of several circumstances may have led to the S-Bahn damaging the overhead line.
DB specialists worked intensively to repair the broken overhead line and clear the track as quickly as possible. Several S-Bahn trains that came to a halt in the power-free section had to be evacuated and then towed away before repair work could begin. According to current information, S-Bahn services are expected to remain limited until the afternoon peak travel period.
Several S-Bahn Lines Back on Regular Routes, But Disruptions Remain
Since this morning, S1, S2, S7, and S8 lines have resumed their regular routes, but passengers should still expect disruptions and altered paths. Pasing station remains partially closed, affecting long-distance services as well. The S3 line (Mammendorf – Holzkirchen) is currently operating only between Mammendorf and Lochhausen, and between Holzkirchen and Ostbahnhof. The S4 line runs between Geltendorf and Puchheim, with replacement bus and taxi services operating between Puchheim and Pasing. The S5 line is currently only running between Kreuzstraße and Ostbahnhof, and the S6 line between Tutzing and Pasing, and between Ebersberg and Hackerbrücke.
DB Tickets Valid for MVG During Disruption
Deutsche Bahn has advised commuters in the city center to switch to subway, bus, and tram services if possible. DB tickets are being accepted on MVG transport during the period of the disruption. For a complete list of line changes and updates, passengers can refer to the S-Bahn Munich website for current disruptions (external link).
Bavarian Transport Minister Criticizes “Miserable Image”
Bavarian Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter reacted indignantly to the problems experienced on the first day of school. “The railway presents a miserable image,” said the CSU politician, noting that not only S-Bahns but also many regional trains were canceled. “The condition of the Munich S-Bahn, in particular, is no longer acceptable,” Bernreiter criticized. He announced that he would contact Philipp Nagl, the head of infrastructure at Deutsche Bahn, regarding the issue.
Source: BR24, Deutsche Bahn, Bavarian Ministry of Transport
