High-performance corridor Hagen-Wuppertal-Cologne

The dates shown are legally non-binding forecasts based on the current status. The forecasts are in no way intended to establish any kind of legal claim whatsoever that completion will take place by the specified date and that use will be possible. For these reasons, the information should also not be used to make or prepare business decisions, for example, but not conclusively, with regard to the vehicle equipment or the compatibility between the vehicles and the infrastructure. If you have any questions, particularly regarding technical network access or obtaining binding information, please contact your customer advisor.

Most of the infrastructure projects are still in the planning phase, which means that the information provided on these pages reflects the current planning status and is updated regularly.

The high-performance corridor (HLN-corridor) from Hagen via Wuppertal to Cologne is an important link between the Cologne metropolitan region and the various major cities, such as Wuppertal or Hagen. This transport axis plays a decisive role in the integration of NRW into the rail network and represents the direct connection from Cologne to Berlin. Due to its strategic location and great importance, it is highly relevant to renew and expand the infrastructure along this corridor.

Digitale Schiene Deutschland is responsible for the ETCS and interlocking equipment in the HLN corridor. The LST layout standards, which specify and describe the equipment of the HLN corridor, will be reviewed in the course of the new equipment with ETCS and integrated where possible (LST: Leit- und Sicherungstechnik: control and safety technology). The main objective is always the implementation of the European Train Control Systems (ETCS) to ensure interoperability. In conjunction with the planned block adjustments, this modern train control system enables more precise monitoring of trains, faster reaction times and greater line capacity. This will allow more trains to run on the existing rail network, improving the punctuality and reliability of rail traffic. The project also includes the upgrading of the Global System for Mobile Communications - Railway (GSM-R), which is required as the mobile communications standard for train control by ETCS. The modernisation and optimisation of this system will ensure reliable and secure communication along the route.

The project begins behind the Leverkusen-Opladen depot on route 2730, runs via route 2731 (Haan junction – Gruiten) to route 2550 (Aachen - Kassel) and extends to the Wuppertal Vohwinkel depot. ETCS will be introduced as an additional train control system. This will enable more robust operation. The previous train control system, "Punktförmige Zugbeeinflussung" (PZB), will function as a fallback level until further notice and will then be completely replaced by ETCS.

As part of the project, cables will be laid for the ETCS trackside equipment and the control units, such as signals, will be replaced. The existing interlockings are ETCS-capable and therefore do not have to be completely replaced, but can be upgraded by means of a software upgrade. Infrastructural measures, such as new points, will be implemented in other projects as part of the HLN-corridor.