Important Milestone at the Renovation of Elstertal Viaduct

The renovation and general maintenance of Elstertal viaduct is a historic challenge: Never bevor an arch bridge of this size of the German railway company has been subjected to general rehabilitation.

Elstertal viaduct is the second largest brick bridge in the world. It was built in the middle of the 19th century and is located in the Vogtland region. Part of the railway line between Leipzig and Hof, it brings the rail tracks over the river Weisse Elster. The bridge consists of around 12 million bricks – around 36,000 were replaced during the renovation in very detailed work. Taking monument protection into consideration, the reinforced concrete track slabs were completely replaced and the piles and arch renovated.

The entire construction project was accomplished during three construction phases, unilaterally while traffic was maintained on one side, and all rail closures and reopening schedules were followed.

On Monday 2 September, the final state of Elstertal viaduct, including the sub-projects deck trough renewal and electronic interlocking system near Jocketa village, was opened for operation. From now on, trains run at normal speed on two tracks over the historic structure.

Between February 2022 and August 2024, the following installations were renewed:

electronic interlocking system Jocketa with around 20 signals
junction Jocketa with 4 switches
approx. 50 new catenary masts
approx. 4000 m catenary
approx. 15 km of signal and telecommunication cables
approx. 2000 m new tracks
deck trough on Elstertal viaduct with notably wider cross section than previously
We are happy about the successful and on-time completion of the sub-projects. Completion of the entire construction project is planned for the end of 2025.