There will be no train service between Franz Josefs station and Heiligenstadt for a few days. This is due to the aftermath of last Saturday’s storm, as water has penetrated into the ÖBB technical rooms.
Updated on August 19 at 8:43 p.m.
VIENNA/ALSERGRUND. 600 fire service operations, record rainfall, a woman in critical condition, dozens of public transport disruptions: This is a brief summary of the stormy Saturday in Vienna. MeinBezirk reported on the incidents from the weekend, see below.
In addition to the Vienna Lines were also the ÖBB hit by the storm. For example, the tracks on the Heiligenstand to Hernals route were under water, and a tree on the track caused disruptions between Klosterneuburg, Meidling and Nussdorf. There was also storm damage on the Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof (Alsergrund) and Heiligenstadt route.
The disruption was reported to the control center at around 6 p.m., and the problem was solved that night. But on Monday afternoon, the ÖBB reported that train traffic on this route was once again not possible. “The reason for this is flood damage. ÖBB tickets are accepted by Wiener Linien. The closure is expected to last until August 24, when operations begin,” it says on X.
“Aftermath of the weekend”
When asked by MeinBezirk, an ÖBB spokeswoman said that the reason for the renewed damage was the “aftermath of the weekend”. The disruption has been going on since 2:30 p.m., they say. The reason: On Saturday afternoon, the sewer system in the affected area was overloaded and water entered the ÖBB technical room. The professional fire brigade was able to pump out the water, after which operations could be restored.
But hours later, operations had to be stopped again because the water had left a lot of moisture in the affected room. According to the spokeswoman, they are working at full speed Maria Magdalena Pavitsichto clear everything out and get rid of the water.
Individual train cancellations possible
The disruption affects trains REX 4, REX 41 as well as the S40 affected. REX 4 and REX 41 start and end at Heiligenstadt station, trains on line S40 can travel to and from Spittelau. “However, there may be individual train cancellations, as this disruption is a major challenge,” says Pavitsich.
The ÖBB originally said that the disruption would end next Saturday, but according to MeinBezirk information, the disruption could be resolved as early as August 21. The ÖBB will provide more information on this on Tuesday afternoon. Passengers are asked to find out more in good time before their journey. Either in the ÖBB Scotty app, online at oebb.at or by phone at 05 1717.
More on the topic:
Woman hit by bus in life-threatening condition
Almost 600 fire brigade operations and one tragic accident caused by storms
Record rainfall, many fire brigade operations & two power outages
Large-scale power outage after storm chaos in Vienna
