This is what the SBB said at the press conference: Since 1:30 p.m., SBB has been providing information about the incident in the Gotthard base tunnel at the press conference in Bellinzona. Apparently, the track system and a lane change gate in the tunnel were severely damaged when the freight train derailed. This safety-related facility is needed to separate the two tunnel tubes. Safety has top priority, which is why the second tube cannot be used for passenger or freight traffic.
Legend:
The gate between the two tunnel tubes is destroyed.
Screenshot: MK SBB
The lane change gate is a custom-made product and cannot simply be bought on the market, according to Rudolf Büchi, Deputy Infrastructure Manager at SBB. As soon as the gate is repaired, at least one tube can be opened again. It is not yet clear when full operation can be resumed.
There are effects for travelers between north and south, for freight transport companies and the population in Ticino. This would have to accept longer travel times. With the temporary closure of the base tunnel, rail capacities at the Gotthard have been reduced by around a third.
Legend:
Screenshot: MK SBB
The accident happened at the worst possible time, said Rudolf Büchi, deputy head of infrastructure at SBB. With the end of the holidays there is a lot of holiday traffic. In addition, the Street Parade will take place in Zurich at the weekend, with around a million people expected.
Legend:
SBB
According to the circumstances, the engine driver is doing well, says Isabelle Betschart Kühne, member of the management board and head of production at SBB Cargo. He will be accompanied.
An exact statement on the cause and extent of damage cannot be made at this time. The Swiss Safety Investigation Board and the cantonal investigation authorities investigated the accident.
Legend:
A first rescue train drives into the Gotthard base tunnel.
SRF
According to the SBB, the closure of the base tunnel, which connects Bodio TI with Erstfeld UR, will last at least until next Wednesday, August 16 at midnight. A little earlier, namely from Tuesday, freight trains should be able to use the base tunnel again. Temporarily, passenger trains will be routed over the Gotthard panorama route as far as possible. SBB advises against spontaneous trips to Ticino until further notice.