- Southwestern region and France aim to enhance their rail services.
Cross-border regional train services are set to enhance, in line with the desires of Baden-Württemberg and its neighboring French region, Grand Est. On Tuesday (10:30 AM), Baden-Württemberg's Transport Minister, Winfried Hermann (Greens), and Grand Est President, Franck Leroy, will unveil a modified Regiolis train in Strasbourg, Alsatian city, which can operate in both nations.
The Regiolis train is anticipated to serve stations in Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland as well. The train was previously showcased almost a year ago in Trier. It is engineered to operate on the varying rail power networks of both nations and also features a diesel engine.
The launch was initially scheduled for the end of the year in Rhineland-Palatinate. Hermann and Leroy are expected to discuss whether this timeline can be maintained.
Between Müllheim and Mulhouse, only buses will be in service
Cross-border connections between France and Baden-Württemberg can sometimes be frustrating. According to the French national railway company SNCF, buses will be the only mode of transport on the route between Müllheim, southern Baden, and Mulhouse, Alsace (Mulhouse) until the end of the year due to a shortage of skilled personnel to operate the trains. Train drivers require specialized training to operate regional trains, SNCF has stated.
The projected revival of the railway line from Freiburg to Alsace's Colmar has been a topic of debate on both sides of the Rhine for years. The exact commencement of this significant project remains undetermined.
The modified Regiolis train, capable of operating on both German and French railways, will not only serve stations in Baden-Württemberg but also extend its service to Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland. Unfortunately, due to a lack of skilled personnel for regional train operations, cross-border bus services will temporarily replace trains between Müllheim in Baden-Württemberg and Mulhouse in Alsace.
