CFL is launching an infrastructure modernisation programme on an unprecedented scale

CFL has announced the start of a series of major infrastructure works, which will cause significant disruption on five key transport corridors from July to September. During this period, routes connecting Luxembourg with France, Belgium and Germany, as well as several domestic lines, will be partially closed. To ensure continuity of transport services, around 200 drivers will operate approximately 1,000 journeys daily using specially allocated buses.

The most extensive restrictions will affect the Luxembourg–Thionville–Metz line, which will be completely closed from 16 July to 23 August. The suspension of services is necessary to allow for the construction of a new railway line between the municipality of Bettembourg and the capital, the modernisation of the power supply and signalling systems, and the completion of work on the Howald transport hub, which is scheduled to open fully at the end of this year. Replacement buses will depart from the Rocade stop behind Luxembourg Central Station. Journey times on this route are expected to increase by approximately 45 minutes.

At the same time, there will be significant changes to the timetable affecting the southern part of the country. Rail services between Luxembourg and the town of Bettembourg will be suspended from 16 July to 14 August, after which, from 15 to 23 August, the section between the capital and the town of Esch-sur-Alzette will be closed. Passengers travelling to the municipalities of Rumelange and Noertzange will be advised to use the RGTR and TICE regional bus networks. In addition, train services to the French commune of Volmerange-les-Mines will also be suspended twice this summer.

Infrastructure projects will also affect journeys to Belgium. Due to track renewal works being carried out by the Belgian company Infrabel, the Kleinbettingen–Arlon section will be closed from 6 to 10 July. InterCity train services between Brussels and Luxembourg will be fully operated by coach. In northern Luxembourg, CFL will carry out work to stabilise rock faces and replace tracks on the sections between the towns of Ettelbruck, Troisvierges, Gouvy, Kautenbach and Wiltz. From 24 August to 14 September, rail services in this region will be replaced by bus services.

During the same period, from 24 August to 14 September, rail services to Germany will be suspended on the section between Luxembourg and the municipality of Igel. As part of a joint project with the German operator DB InfraGo AG, more than 11 kilometres of track will be upgraded. According to CFL representatives, this programme is a crucial step towards modernising the country’s overburdened rail network and preparing for the implementation of major infrastructure projects, which are scheduled for completion in 2027.