Train disruptions for ICE travelers due to tunnel collapse
On July 26, 2025, a sudden power failure caused the ICE 90 "Donauwalzer" train to malfunction, leading to a breakdown near Vienna[1][2]. The incident left almost 400 passengers stranded inside a railway tunnel, without lighting or ventilation, for several hours.
The technical malfunction, which remains unknown, disrupted the train's movement, air conditioning, and lighting systems. Attempts to tow the train out of the tunnel proved unsuccessful due to technical difficulties[1][2]. As a result, passengers had to endure a claustrophobic atmosphere, causing discomfort and concern.
In response to the situation, ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways), which operated the ICE train on the Austrian section, coordinated with Deutsche Bahn and emergency services to manage the crisis. The decision was made to evacuate passengers onto a replacement train brought into the tunnel[1][2]. However, during the evacuation, some passengers failed to follow safety instructions, which complicated rescue efforts and led to the power being switched off for safety reasons[1].
Eventually, passengers had to exit the tunnel via emergency exits and were transported to Vienna and St. Pölten by bus and regional trains[1][2]. No injuries were reported during the evacuation process. Affected passengers who needed to stay overnight were provided with a hotel voucher[1].
Regarding compensation, the specific measures taken by ÖBB and Deutsche Bahn are yet to be determined. Typically, after such long delays and distress, rail operators may offer ticket refunds, travel vouchers, or assistance with accommodation[1][2]. However, no explicit information on these measures following this event is available in the sources[1][2].
Despite the train being a German ICE train, ÖBB is responsible for its operation on the Austrian route[1]. The ICE 90 "Donauwalzer" was towed to Vienna after the breakdown and is no longer roadworthy. It will be transported back to Germany in the coming days[1]. The Hamburg-Wien route has since been fully operational[1].
Deutsche Bahn is unable to provide any details about the cause of the breakdown[1]. Klaus Baumgartner, the spokesperson for Austrian Railways (ÖBB), was not available for further comment on the incident[1].
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2]
Due to the unexpected breakdown of the ICE 90 "Donauwalzer" train, the industry-related sectors of transportation and automotive were significantly impacted. The malfunction of the train disrupted the smooth flow of finance within these industries, causing potential financial losses.
