Rastatt – It is one of the most closely watched bottlenecks in European infrastructure: the Rastatt Tunnel. As the centerpiece of the Karlsruhe–Basel expansion and new construction project, this project will determine the performance of the entire Rhine Valley corridor. Current progress clearly shows that the goal of finally relieving this central European artery is within reach.
East tunnel and tunnel construction: Visible progress
Concrete is currently being poured at full speed in the east tunnel. Visitors to the construction site can already clearly see the future course of the pedestrian underpass. Once this work is completed on schedule in spring 2026, the diaphragm wall will be dismantled. Final completion of the underpass is scheduled for 2027, after the Rhine Valley railway line has been relocated.
Inside the tunnel, the shell construction is giving way to high technology:
- Interior work: The safety lighting is already in place, and kilometers of power and telephone cables are being laid.
- Safety: The tunnel swing doors for the cross passages and the lifting systems are almost completely installed.
- Sound insulation: The cladding is growing on the south trough to provide lasting relief for local residents.
Technical check: The brain of the line goes online
The tracks at the northern and southern junctions are in place, and the approval process for the signaling and safety technology is underway. A special milestone is the new Kreuzacker electronic signal box, which will control traffic on the new line in the future. The software – the digital heart of the system – is currently being prepared here.
Connectivity is also in place: following the installation of the first cell phone tower in December 2025, a second one will be installed at the south portal in April to ensure seamless reception and emergency services radio communication in the tunnel.
Source: Newsletter dated February 27, 2026: Karlsruhe–Basel rail project, DB Infra GO AG