The generalsanierte Riedbahn between Frankfurt and Mannheim, billed as a solution to chronic delays, celebrated its first anniversary with mixed reports: commuters still encounter tardiness, while Deutsche Bahn highlights measurable improvements.
Promises versus passenger reality
After a €1.5 billion overhaul that began in July 2024, daily users such as Thomas Mitlewski and a 26‑year‑old commuter named Elvin report that trains like the RE70 still run ten minutes late, forcing them to inform employers of expected delays.
Deutsche Bahn’s performance data
Project manager Julian Fassing, who oversaw the renewal of 111 km of track, 152 switches, signals, and related infrastructure, says regional services are now “significantly more stable and punctual.” The punctuality rate for regional trains has risen to 81 percent, up from 59 percent a year earlier – a gain of 20 percentage points. He also notes a roughly 60 percent reduction in overall disturbances and an upgrade of the line’s condition rating from 3.7 to 2.2.
Technical hiccups that persist
Despite the overall gains, recent signal problems at Biblis have been traced to new infrared scanners intended to replace older radar systems at level crossings. These cameras falsely detected debris such as leaves or sunlight reflections, prompting unnecessary barrier closures. A software update and re‑calibration of switches have mitigated many of these issues.
Driver’s view on the changes
An anonymous locomotive driver acknowledges the addition of more signals and a more complex interlocking system, yet observes little improvement in punctuality, citing frequent minor switch and signal faults and high line utilisation.
Future outlook
The European Train Control System (ETCS) is operational only on the southern portion between Mannheim and Biblis; deployment on the northern stretch toward Frankfurt has faced repeated delays, with test runs projected for next February. If the rollout proceeds, trains could travel up to 200 km/h, potentially allowing them to recover lost time.
DB’s infrastructure arm DB Infrago, represented by programme leader Wolfgang Weinhold, assures a five‑year construction lull, stating that no systematic work is planned on the line during that period, aside from isolated projects such as an additional passing track at Riedstadt‑Goddelau.
Frequently Asked Questions
What punctuality rates does Deutsche Bahn report for regional trains on the Riedbahn?
Deutsche Bahn reports that regional trains have achieved an 81 percent punctuality rate, up from 59 percent a year earlier.
How many trains use the Riedbahn each day?
According to Deutsche Bahn, roughly 400 trains run daily on the Riedbahn.
Is the ETCS signalling system fully operational on the Riedbahn?
No. The ETCS system is currently active only on the southern section between Mannheim and Biblis; activation on the northern section toward Frankfurt has been delayed.
What do you think will be the most decisive factor in turning the Riedbahn’s promised reliability into everyday reality?
