In its regular update on the ongoing restoration efforts at the Gotthard Base Tunnel—where a freight train derailed on August 10, 2023—SBB confirms that the work is on track. Specifically, this means that all trains will return to full operation from September 2024, over a year after the construction work began in October 2023. The company reports that a new track-switching gate is currently being installed at the Faido multifunctional station.
“Given its size, the custom-made gate was introduced into the tunnel at the end of April in several parts, which are now being assembled and installed over approximately six weeks,” the statement added. “In its final state, the track-switching gate will measure around four meters in width and seven meters in height. After installation, the electromechanical and hydraulic control systems will be mounted and tested on site.”
The lengthy restoration period is due to the severe damage caused by the derailment. Since last October, “seven kilometers of track have been completely renewed, with rails replaced alongside twenty thousand sleeper blocks and the concrete layer in which they are embedded. Additionally, at the Faido multifunctional station, both high-speed switches and their drives have been replaced.”
Following the gate installation, the construction site will focus on restoring the railway's technological equipment and completing the tunnel installations, including fire sensors and lighting. The tunnel will then be cleaned by a work train, which will also remove fine dust particles. Finally, all systems will need to be tested and approved, including trial runs.
