The Gotthard Axis, which crosses the Alps between Italy and Switzerland, is one of the most important railway crossings in Europe. When the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened in 2016, it was hailed as a revolutionary development for the region’s rail transport. However, an unexpected event in 2023 once again highlighted the importance of alternative rail routes. Due to a derailment in the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the tunnel remained partially closed for over a year. During this time, the former Gotthard Mountain Railway became a strategic backup line and proved its resilience.
Major Investment to Renovate Old Railway Line
Following these developments, Swiss City Councilor Albert Rösti has committed to a major investment of 1 billion francs to renew the old Gotthard Mountain Railway. Rösti’s statements once again underlined the critical importance of this line for the rail transport sector. The renovation work will include the modernization of tunnels, bridges and roads. The Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) and the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) have begun talks to modernize this route and strengthen the infrastructure.
One from FOT sözcü, stated that in this process, in addition to the maintenance of the line, if possible, improvement works will be carried out. The renovation works are planned to start with major investments in 2029 and be completed by 2040. Thus, Switzerland will enter a significant modernization process in its railway infrastructure, ensuring that the old line serves as a reliable alternative in the long term.
The Importance of Alternative Railway Routes
Although the Gotthard Base Tunnel is considered one of the most modern railway crossings across the Alps, its temporary closure has shown how fragile transport in the region can be. While the old railway line provided a vital alternative during the tunnel closure, it was inadequate to meet modern freight transport needs. For example, it was observed that the railway was not adequately equipped to handle semi-trailers. This situation highlighted the importance of modernising alternative routes.
Switzerland’s goal with this investment is to ensure the uninterrupted and reliable operation of rail transport. The Gotthard Axis will not only strengthen trade connections between Switzerland and Italy, but will continue to be of strategic importance for all of European rail transport.