DB InfraGO AG has concluded negotiations with rail operators, industry groups, and federal states on a revised timetable for the overhaul of major railway corridors across Germany. The comprehensive renovation plan, known as 'Generalsanierung', will now be adjusted based on industry capacities and feedback on rerouting feasibility. This plan covers around 4,000 kilometres of heavily used lines.
Confirmed Corridors for 2026 and 2027
Planning for 2026 and 2027 remains on track due to the advanced construction and scheduling stages. In 2026, the following lines are scheduled for full renovation:
- Hagen–Wuppertal–Cologne
- Nuremberg–Regensburg
- Obertraubling–Passau
- Troisdorf–Wiesbaden
In 2027, the following areas will be the focus of modernisation efforts:
- Rosenheim–Salzburg
- Lehrte–Berlin
- Bremerhaven–Bremen
- Fulda–Hanau
Conversely, the upgrades for Lübeck–Hamburg and Frankfurt–Heidelberg have been deferred to subsequent years.
New Timeline from 2028 Onward
- Cologne–Mainz
- Munich–Rosenheim
- Hagen–Unna–Hamm
- Lübeck–Hamburg
Next Steps and Formal Notification
The 2026–2027 schedule and updated post-2027 plan will be coordinated with the Federal Ministry of Transport in the coming weeks. Operators are advised to expect formal notice regarding the 2028 works and capacity restrictions for 2029 by mid-August.
The general renovation ('Generalsanierung') approach consolidates all essential works—including track, signalling, and station upgrades—into concentrated blocks. This strategy aims to reduce long-term disruptions compared to piecemeal construction under ongoing rail traffic.
The next major project is scheduled to kick off on August 1, 2025, with the commencement of the Hamburg–Berlin line renewal.
