by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

(AI-Translations): Deutsch

Germany is preparing for notable rail disruptions in July, affecting both freight transport and access to key ports.

Extensive construction work has necessitated closures that will impact operations across several routes and terminals.

Following is a list of the closures so far announced by local operators.

Planned Rail Closures

29 June – 4 July 2025

Daytime traffic on the Elbtal section between Bad Schandau and Pirna will be completely halted from 08:50 to 18:50. Night-time operations will be restricted to regular scheduled trains, with alternative diversion routes limited by line capacity and train weight/length parameters. This may result in delays and reduced cargo volumes.

The closures on the Elbtal particularly disrupt freight trains to the Czech Republic, Hungary and neighbouring landlocked countries. As a result, shipment delays to this region are to be expected.

4 – 8 July 2025

Due to construction works, rail access to Hamburg Waltershof station will be completely closed. This will prevent operations at the Hamburg Altenwerder, Burchardkai, and Eurogate terminals and cancel all train services during this period.

Accumulated volumes at these terminals post-closure may lead to extended handling times.

Estimates suggest that during these closures, between 13,500 and 20,000 TEU of imports and up to 15,000 TEU of exports will be affected.

For the latest port status or situation update, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.

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