Rail service disruptions at Harz narrow-gauge railways due to staff shortages at key junctions, resulting in halted train operations.
The Harz Narrow Gauge Railways (HSB) has announced a temporary adjustment to its timetable from August 13 to 22, due to a staff shortage in the signal box. This staff shortage will result in a restriction in the required train crew during the late afternoon of the specified period.
The impact of the timetable adjustment on the rest of the network is minimal. However, some train connections will be cancelled, including the morning train connection from Wernigerode to Schierke and back on the Harzquerbahn, as well as the evening train from Wernigerode to Eisfeld Talmühle and back.
To maintain connectivity along affected routes, HSB will provide replacement bus services. These buses will typically follow a timetable aligned as closely as possible with the normal train schedule. However, travel times may be longer due to road traffic and different vehicle speeds.
HSB spokesman Dirk Bahnsen announced the adjustment, stating that the company aims to meet the mobility needs of its passengers as best as possible despite the staff shortage. He added that the Brocken Railway will remain an attractive tourist destination during the adjusted timetable.
Passengers are advised to allow additional time for connections and expect some service adjustments. It's also recommended to check the HSB's official website, social media channels, and station notices for the most accurate and up-to-date information on staff shortages and bus replacement services.
Train tickets and passes remain valid on the replacement buses without extra charge. The first departure from Wernigerode is at 9 a.m., and the last from Wernigerode or Drei Annen Hohne is at 2 p.m. Six daily trips to the highest peak of the Harz will still be available, with two late afternoon steam train connections cancelled during the mentioned period.
Subscribing to the Nordhausen Newsletter implies agreement to the advertising agreement. The current summer timetable of the municipal railway company will otherwise continue without restrictions. The last descent from the Brocken is scheduled for 4:19 p.m.
Despite the challenges, the HSB remains committed to ensuring mobility for its passengers during the staff shortage period. Staff shortages can be due to various factors like illness, operational challenges, or unexpected absences which make it impossible to run the full train schedule.
The Harz Narrow Gauge Railways continues to be a popular tourist destination, with its unique charm and scenic routes attracting visitors from around the world. The company encourages travellers to plan their journeys accordingly and to check for updates before their travel date.
The temporary adjustments in the HSB's timetable may also affect the transportation sector, causing some public-transit buses to fill in for cancelled train connections, particularly on the Harzquerbahn and Eisfeld Talmühle lines. During the finance-strapped time, the HSB industry aims to maintain mobility for passengers while prioritizing their needs amid staff shortages.
