Leipzig-Chemnitz railroad line will remain a bottleneck for many years to come

The long-awaited expansion of the Leipzig-Chemnitz railroad line is still many years away. While work on the southern section from Geithain to Chemnitz is due to start in 2032 and last until 2035, planning for the northern section to Leipzig has not even been commissioned yet.

This is revealed in an answer from the Ministry of Infrastructure to a small question from Katja Maier (Greens), member of the state parliament. Minister Regina Kraushaar (CDU) writes that no valid information can yet be provided on the start of construction and commissioning of the northern section. The "Leipziger Volkszeitung" had previously reported on this.

Important transport artery for commuters and the economy

The approximately 80-kilometre-long railroad line connects the two major cities and is important for the Chemnitz economic region as a link to the long-distance transport hub of Leipzig. The connection is also used by many commuters. However, there is only one track and there is no overhead line, so capacity is limited.

For many years, businesses, local authorities and associations have therefore been fighting for a double-track extension and electrification. However, it is already clear that this will not be completely continuous. For cost reasons, the southern section is to remain single-track at two bridges over 1 and 1.6 kilometers. Advocates of the expansion have warned against further cutbacks, as this would jeopardize the 30-minute frequency between the two cities.

According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, planning for the northern section is set to begin in April. The costs could prove to be the Achilles heel when it comes to implementation. According to the information, almost 500 million euros are available from funds for structural change in coal regions. However, according to a cost estimate from 2024, investments of around 750 million euros are required.