Basel Rethinks Ambitious Underground Rail Link, Eyes Above-Ground Alternatives
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A proposed underground rail connection between Basel SBB and Badischer Bahnhof is facing significant headwinds, prompting a reevaluation of the city’s railway strategy. Authorities in Bern are currently advocating for a swift implementation of an underground cross-section line to bolster the tri-regional S-Bahn system, but experts warn the project may be ill-suited for Basel’s unique geographical challenges.
Cost and Geography Challenge Underground Plan
The core issue lies in the substantial elevation difference – a 55-meter gradient – that would need to be overcome for a direct underground connection. According to a retired transport planner who contributed to the design of Zurich’s completed cross-country line, the expense of navigating this incline renders the project impractical. “It’s simply no use if you don’t have a stop,” the expert explained in a recent interview, questioning the value of a costly tunnel without intermediate stations.
Instead, the planner suggests an above-ground ring railway via St. Johann and along the Rhine would be a more sensible solution. This approach raises a fundamental question: is a direct link between Basel SBB and Badischer Bahnhof the most pressing transportation need for the city? The expert believes the answer is no.
A Holistic Network Approach
Rather than focusing solely on an underground tunnel, a comprehensive review of Basel’s entire railway network is required. An above-ground expansion, initiated in two key areas, is proposed. The first priority is a new junction to EuroAirport (EAP) from Germany, facilitating both regional and long-distance traffic and connecting the German and French rail networks.
This would allow for a connection from Freiburg to Badischer Bahnhof, or alternatively, via the new airport connection to Basel SBB. The planner is confident this would improve the distribution of train traffic originating in Germany. The second component of the plan involves constructing a ring railway connecting Badischer Bahnhof and Basel SBB via St. Johann, utilizing a bridge over the Rhine.
Cross-Border Collaboration is Key
Paul Stopper’s plan, however, hinges on successful collaboration between Basel, France, and Germany – a historically complex undertaking. While acknowledging the difficulties, the planner remains optimistic. “With a good project you can also do something good across borders,” he stated, envisioning Switzerland playing a mediating role in fostering cross-border cooperation.
Existing Plans Face Scrutiny
The idea of a ring railway isn’t entirely new, according to Marco Galli, coordinator for the Basel rail hub. However, he argues that a ring railway around the city center would require significant space and wouldn’t be cost-effective. “We have repeatedly examined circular railways in the past, but they do not bring the same benefits as a direct, underground connection,” Galli countered.
Regarding the airport connection proposal, Galli clarified that its focus depends on whether the goal is to expand regional or long-distance transport. He emphasized that the EAP connection and long-distance expansion are currently separate projects. “We are now fully relying on the diameter line,” Galli affirmed, expressing confidence in securing funding from Bern. The diameter line is estimated to cost around seven billion francs – roughly half the projected expense of the more ambitious underground centerpiece.
