ICM Case due to derailment in Gotthard base tunnel
Rail traffic interrupted in Gotthard base tunnel
The derailment of a freight train severely damaged the track system and a gauge change gate in the Gotthard Base Tunnel. This safety-relevant device is needed to separate the two tunnel tubes. Safety has top priority, which is why the second tube cannot be used for passenger or freight traffic. Use for freight traffic will not be possible until at least midnight on Monday, 14 August 2023. For passenger traffic, the line will still be closed until at least 16 August 2023, 24.00 hrs. This will increase the travel time between Northrn Switzerland and Ticino by around one hour. As international travellers have to change trains in Chiasso, their travel time will be extended by around two hours. SBB apologises for the inconvenience.
It is not yet possible to make a precise statement on the cause and extent of the damage. The Swiss Safety Investigation Authority and the cantonal investigation authorities are investigating the accident. The accident site has not yet been released by the investigating authorities for clean-up and repair work.
Due to the increased traffic volume and the limited alternative connections at the weekend and the limited number of seats available, SBB strongly recommends postponing spontaneous rail journeys over the Gotthard and asks for your understanding.
According to railway regulations, freight trains can travel on the Gotthard panoramic route up to a certain profile. Accordingly, a large part of the domestic transport takes place via this route, a small part is temporarily transported by road. Combined transport (containers, semi-trailers, lorries) exceeds this corner height and can therefore only use the Gotthard route via the Gotthard Base Tunnel. Therefore, combined traffic in the transit area is diverted via the Lötschberg-Simplon axis or retained in the exit terminals. There are only minor restrictions on freight transports and the flow of goods is ensured. SBB will inform again in due course.
More information can be found HERE. (German and Italian)
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