Overhead cable malfunction or deterioration - Railway infrastructure impairment during vegetation trimming operations
During upkeep on the significant commuter train route connecting Pforzheim and Mühlacker (Enz district), the overhead cable system experienced significant harm, prompting the shutdown of the tracks. As per railway authorities, a deep-rooted tension cable anchored to the ground was sliced, leading to the overhead cable system losing its tension and slacking. Subsequently, a long-distance train headed towards Mühlacker came into contact with the slackened cable using its pantograph, and a local express on the opposite track ultimately yanked it down completely. The predicted duration of the closure is inconclusive, with trains being diverted.
Approximately 200 long-distance travelers experienced direct impacts, as per federal law enforcement, and were forced to disembark in Mühlacker and proceed using other transportation methods. The local train, carrying over ten passengers, concluded its journey in Niefern. Besides the pantograph, multiple doors and windows of the Intercity train were likewise damaged.
The repair team discovered that the sliced tension cable, which is of a width of several centimeters, was situated close to the track where the long-distance train encountered the slackened overhead cable. Due to the extent of damage, it's necessary to replace the section of the overhead cable system that is of a width comparable to a single train carriage.
