Travel Disruptions on the Rheingau Line between Wiesbaden and Koblenz on Saturday
Wiesbaden, Germany – Travelers planning to use the Rheingau Line (RB10) between Wiesbaden and Koblenz on Saturday, July 8, 2023, should expect significant service disruptions.
The operator of the Rheingau Line, VIAS GmbH, has announced that trains will operate on an hourly schedule in both directions throughout the day. This reduced frequency is due to the understaffing and non-occupation of the signal box (Stellwerk) in Oberlahnstein.
The Oberlahnstein signal box is responsible for controlling all train operations between Wiesbaden and Niederlahnstein. The lack of personnel to operate the signal box has forced VIAS to implement the reduced service.
Affected Trains
All trains on the RB10 line between Wiesbaden and Koblenz will be affected by the disruptions on Saturday. This includes trains originating from or terminating at the following stations:
- Wiesbaden Hauptbahnhof
- Wiesbaden Ostbahnhof
- Biebrich
- Schierstein
- Rüdesheim am Rhein
- Geisenheim
- Niederlahnstein
- Koblenz Hauptbahnhof
Alternative Transportation
Passengers who need to travel between Wiesbaden and Koblenz on Saturday are advised to consider alternative transportation options, such as:
- Regional buses: Several bus lines operate between Wiesbaden and Koblenz, including the 170, 174, and 175.
- Carpooling: Ride-sharing services like BlaBlaCar or Mitfahrgelegenheit can connect passengers with drivers traveling between the two cities.
- Taxi: Taxi services are available at both Wiesbaden Hauptbahnhof and Koblenz Hauptbahnhof.
Advice for Passengers
VIAS recommends that passengers allow extra time for their journeys on Saturday due to the reduced train frequency. Passengers should also check the latest train schedules before traveling to confirm any changes or updates.
Real-time train information is available on the VIAS website at https://www.vias-bahn.de/aktuelles/aktuelle-verkehrsmeldungen.html. Passengers can also follow VIAS on social media for updates and information about the service disruptions.
Cause of the Disruptions
The cause of the signal box understaffing is not publicly known. However, it is speculated that the shortage of personnel is due to a combination of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, staff shortages in the rail industry, and a lack of qualified applicants.
Future Service
VIAS has not provided any information on when the full train service will resume. Passengers are advised to check the VIAS website and social media channels for updates on the situation.
