The ÖBB Tauerntunnel, which is an important connection between Carinthia and Salzburg in particular for many commuters, is about to be completely closed. A diversion is only possible over a large area.
According to ÖBB, the 113-year-old Tauern tunnel needs to be modernized and renovated. A total lockdown is necessary. And this should take several months. “The tunnel will be closed from November 18, 2024 to July 13, 2025,” announced Rosanna Zernatto-Peschel, ÖBB’s spokeswoman.
“The work is necessary to be able to continue to carry out safe and correspondingly efficient train traffic,” says Zernatto-Peschel. Because water keeps coming in, the inner shell of the tunnel has to be renovated. The portals also have to be built and the security technology is being renewed for this. Single-track operation is not possible during the modernization.
commuters and students affected
The closure presents a major challenge for commuters and students in particular: from Mallnitz and Böckstein near Bad Gastein it takes more than two to three hours by car – instead of eleven minutes by train through the tunnel. The only other ways to get from Carinthia to Salzburg are via the Tauerntunnel on the A10 motorway or via the Felbertauern in East Tyrol. Because the Großglockner High Alpine Road is closed from autumn to early May.
Rail replacement service planned
The spokeswoman for ÖBB: “We are working on a track replacement service and modified additions. All this is still in planning and development. Those involved will also be informed in a timely manner.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
