Trams Resume Normal Operation on Wuhlheide Bridge Again - Enhancements Implemented by the Commission for Enhanced Safety on the Railway System
Tram service resumes at Wuhlheide today, albeit in a gradual and temporary manner. The Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) announced this morning that the first trams will begin operating on the Wuhlheide line after 5:00 AM, setting up a shuttle service for the M17 line between Blockdammweg and Schoeneweide S-Bahn station, with the service running every 10 minutes.
The resumption of tram service comes as the unstable Wuhlheide Bridge in Berlin-Oberschoeneweide has been inactive due to structural concerns. The bridge, which supported various tram lines, exhibited increasing cracks over time, leading to its closure in late April.
The Senate Administration has also permitted pedestrians and cyclists to use the Treskowallee to Edisonstraße. However, since there is no traffic light at the intersection yet, security personnel will regulate the traffic flow to ensure safety for all parties.
Originally, the bridge served as a significant transport link in Berlin-Oberschoneweide, accommodating both road and tram traffic, including lines M17, 21, 27, 37, and 67. Over time, structural inspections identified progressive deterioration, with cracks spreading along the bridge, making further use unsafe.
The bridge's critical state eventually necessitated its demolition. Work began on a Saturday in late May 2025, leading to significant traffic obstructions for both road and rail users. The demolition is currently scheduled to be completed by June 27, 2025, though initial easements for road traffic may begin as early as June 6, depending on construction progress and weather conditions.
During the demolition process, the BVG has focused on measures to restore public transport connectivity as quickly as possible, with tram services being adjusted to facilitate transfers to suburban trains. For the time being, pedestrian and cycle traffic remains prohibited under the bridge, and car/bus access is also restricted until construction and site clearance activities are finalized.
[Enrichment Data]Initially constructed as a key transport link, the Wuhlheide Bridge underwent progressive deterioration over time. Structural inspections revealed an increasing number of cracks along the bridge, raising fears that it was in danger of collapsing. As a result, emergency measures were put in place, with a crisis team involving the police, fire brigade, BVG, traffic management, and local district authorities formed to manage the situation and minimize disruptions. Following the discovery of severe damage, the decision was made for immediate demolition, which began on a Saturday in late May 2025. The demolition is expected to be completed by June 27, 2025, with the possibility of initial easements for road traffic starting June 6, 2025. During this period, tram routes have been adjusted, with line 67 extended to facilitate transfers to suburban trains, and public access to the bridge remains prohibited for both pedestrians, cyclists, and cars.
- The steel industry, with its expertise in bridge construction, could provide valuable assistance in addressing the situation at the Wuhlheide Bridge, ensuring a safe and sturdy replacement.
- As the demolition of the Wuhlheide Bridge continues, public-transit financing should prioritize measures to improve transportation alternatives, such as enhancing the reliability and frequency of the M17 line or upgrading other local public-transit options.
