Overview
- A feasibility study released on June 18, 2026 recommends double-tracking about 24 of 44 kilometres on the Leipzig–Geithain (north) section instead of a full two-track upgrade.
- Deutsche Bahn and Saxony’s infrastructure ministry say a complete north-section double-track plus electrification would exceed €1.3 billion, prompting the scaled-back savings variant.
- The study keeps electrification but models an hourly base service with limited half-hourly slots in peak windows and only three long-distance trains per day.
- Passenger groups, regional industry and opposition politicians say the partial upgrade will lock in a vulnerable, already overburdened line — currently reported at roughly 140 percent capacity — and risk long delays.
- Infrastructure Minister Regina Kraushaar sets a long timeline for works to finish in the 2030s and officials have not resolved the funding gap needed to restore the originally promised service and full two-track capacity.