Renovation of the Kirchet- and Cheistentunnel by 2025.
To ensure that the Meiringen–Innertkirchen route remains reliable and safe, Zentralbahn is carrying out extensive renovation work on the Kirchet and Cheisten tunnels. The work will take place in two stages, starting in November 2024 and November 2025 respectively, and will include temporary line closures and adjusted connections. Find out here exactly what will be done and what restrictions are to be expected.
To ensure that the Meiringen–Innertkirchen route remains reliable and safe, Zentralbahn is carrying out extensive renovation work on the Kirchet and Cheisten tunnels. The work will take place in two stages, starting in November 2024 and November 2025 respectively, and will include temporary line closures and adjusted connections. Find out here exactly what will be done and what restrictions are to be expected.
Initial situation
In order to continue to ensure the stability and safety of the Kirchet and Cheisten tunnels, the vaults and water ingress points are being repaired. The focus here is on sealing the vault area.
Objective of the construction project
- Securing the tunnel by removing loose blocks
- Compliant dismantling of corrugated asbestos cement panels, including proper disposal
- Installation of a new water drainage system
- Sealing of leaky areas in the vault and near the tunnel portal
- Replacement of overhead lines
- Integration of the KWO tunnel radio system into the Zentralbahn system
Construction schedule and work
The work will be carried out in two stages.
Stage 1: November 4 to December 14, 2024
- Dismantling of the catenary system
- Renovation of the vault
- Installation of a temporary catenary system
- Rock cleaning
Stage 2: November 3 to 30, 2025
- Dismantling of the temporary catenary system
- Installation of a ceiling conductor rail
Restrictions and inconveniences
Zentralbahn is committed to providing all passengers with a smooth service. However, due to the construction work, restrictions and inconveniences are unavoidable.
Noise pollution
The work will mainly take place in the two tunnels outside residential areas. No increased noise pollution is expected for local residents.
Line closure
In order to carry out the work efficiently, the Meringen–Innertkirchen line will be closed from November 3 to 30, 2025. Trains will be replaced by rail replacement buses.
The stops in Aareschlucht West and Innertkirchen Unterwasser cannot be served. The replacement buses will also stop in Willigen, Dorf and Innertkirchen, Winkel. Please allow for longer travel times and check the updated SBB online timetable: SBB online timetable
The second stage of the work will take place at night. There will be no restrictions for passengers.
Impact on the Meiringen–Innertkirchen road
There will be no restrictions or disruptions on the road.