| Work Detail |
ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) has achieved a significant milestone in the ongoing, comprehensive modernisation of the Tauern Railway with a partial renovation of the Tauern Tunnel, a vital component of this Alpine transit corridor, being completed. This strategic tunnel, which supports one of Austria’s most important north–south rail links, is currently being fitted with the latest infrastructure and safety systems. At the same time, extensive rehabilitation efforts along the Tauern Railway, between Schwarzach im Pongau and Mallnitz, are progressing at full speed. These works form part of a multi-year investment programme aimed at upgrading and future-proofing this internationally significant route through the Alps. The Tauern Tunnel and the associated railway line, forming a key connection between the federal states of Salzburg and Carinthia, are scheduled to resume operations in June 2025. In the final construction phase, renovation of the tunnel vault has been successfully concluded. Over the next three months, specialist crews will be installing slab track infrastructure, overhead line equipment, and modern systems for power supply, control, telecommunications, and remote operation. These improvements are critical in ensuring the line meets the latest European standards for safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. A particularly important service, the Tauern Lock—which enables car and bicycle transport through the tunnel between Böckstein and Mallnitz—is due to reopen in July 2025. This seasonal shuttle offers a unique travel solution for tourists and locals alike, restoring direct mobility across the Gastein Valley during the summer months. Furthermore, the entire Tauern line is set to reopen on 14 July 2025, following the successful completion of modernisation works across the corridor. Despite the scale of the construction project, ÖBB has continued to ensure reliable and environmentally friendly mobility throughout the region. A network of replacement bus services has been deployed between Salzburg and Carinthia and within the Gastein Valley, helping to keep passengers moving during the closure. Timetables are coordinated to maintain punctuality and convenience, ensuring passengers can continue to travel sustainably and efficiently. In addition, recognising the temporary disruption to the well-loved Alpe-Adria Cycle Route—which runs from Salzburg to Grado in Italy—ÖBB is introducing a dedicated bike shuttle service starting on 11 April 2025. The new bus-bike service will be able to transport up to 35 bicycles per journey, helping cyclists to bypass the closure with ease. Reservations are required in advance, and the service aims to support regional tourism during the reconstruction phase. The overall modernisation of the Tauern line is part of ÖBB’s broader strategy to make rail transport safer, more comfortable, and climate-friendly. In line with Austria’s national transport goals, and in conjunction with the commissioning of the Koralm Railway and the introduction of a new integrated regular-interval timetable, the Tauern corridor is being positioned as a vital artery for future long-distance traffic. Alongside the Brenner axis, the Salzburg–Villach route via the Tauern line represents Austria’s most crucial cross-Alpine railway link. Infrastructure upgrades are being carried out to accommodate higher traffic volumes, faster trains, and better reliability. This includes works on multiple bridges, viaducts, culverts, and noise protection systems. A significant project along the route is the replacement of the Lieser Bridge near Spittal an der Drau, which will further enhance operational safety and performance. Several key stations are also being upgraded to become barrier-free and fully modernised, including Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein, Dorfgastein, and Schwarzach-St. Veit. These improvements are designed to improve accessibility and passenger experience, particularly for those with reduced mobility. To carry out this wide-ranging programme, the Tauern line will be closed in two distinct construction phases, beginning in 2024 and expected to be fully completed by 2027. These closures are essential to enable deep structural upgrades and minimise long-term disruption once the modernised line is operational. To celebrate and document these transformative efforts, the Tauern Railway Museum in Schwarzach im Pongau will unveil a special exhibition starting on 1 May 2025. Curated with the support of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, the exhibition will offer visitors unique insights into the past, present, and future of the Tauern Railway. It will feature highlights from the Tauern Tunnel renovation, station redevelopment, and broader initiatives to enhance Austria’s green mobility network. |
