Defending the Bäderbahn: A Necessary Rail Link for Timmendorfer Strand and Lübeck
After the announcement of the state of Schleswig-Holstein and Deutsche Bahn to shut down the Bäderbahn—a vital rail link connecting Lübeck to the coastal municipality of Timmendorfer Strand—the municipalities of Timmendorfer Strand and Lübeck remain adamant in their fight for preservation. According to Sven Partheil-Böhnke, the mayor of Timmendorfer Strand, the closure would significantly delay the planning of the rail link to the Baltic Sea tunnel due to repeated planning processes being required.
Expert review of the state's and Deutsche Bahn's decision commissions Hamburg administrative law expert, Ulrich Ramsauer. He confirmed that DB Netz would cease operating the Bäderbahn, with the state prospectively arranging for local rail passenger transport on the route of the new rail link to the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link instead.
Bäderbahn's Significance to the Region
- Local Connectivity: The Bäderbahn serves as a crucial transportation link connecting Timmendorfer Strand and Lübeck, allowing for efficient commute and tourism in the area.
- Economic Impact: Businesses along the rail route, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops, rely on the Bäderbahn to cater to their customers. Closure could result in decreased sales and increased transportation costs being shifted to patrons.
- Alternative Routes: Lack of a readily available alternative route could result in passengers opting for lengthier or alternate modes of transportation, thus reducing rail network efficiency.
Delay in Baltic Sea Tunnel Project
- Infrastructure Adjustments: If the Baltic Sea tunnel project integrates with existing rail infrastructure, closure of the Bäderbahn might necessitate modifications with potential impacts on project duration and resources.
- Regional Connectivity: Baltic Sea tunnel aims to improve connectivity between Denmark and Germany. The closure of the Bäderbahn may underscore the need for strong and extensive transportation navigation in the region.
- Environmental and Economic Considerations: Any halt in the rail link could provoke adjustments in the tunnel project's environmental and economic evaluations, ensuring they are consistent with the new transportation landscape.
In summary, the repercussions of closing the Bäderbahn between Lübeck and Neustadt remain far-reaching and convoluted. Although specific details are not reported within the provided sources, it becomes evident that this shutdown will have significant consequences on regional rail connectivity and potentially influence the execution of the Baltic Sea tunnel project. In-depth assessments mandate particular data and analyses specific to the rail service and the tunnel project's design and implementation.
