German government funding gap endangers over 90 rail projects

More than 90 railway projects across Germany, ranging from high‑speed lines to regional extensions, risk being halted because the federal budget lacks sufficient funds. The government confirmed that its medium‑term plan to 2030 does not cover the required financing for ongoing and new rail constructions.

The rail advocacy coalition Alliance pro Schiene, led by director Dirk Flege, warned that a budget adjustment in 2027 is needed and called for a multi‑year infrastructure financing plan. "We expect that construction‑ready projects will actually be built," Flege said. Electrification schemes are also threatened by the shortfall. Specific corridors mentioned include the Hannover–Bielefeld and Mannheim–Karlsruhe lines, as well as the recently renovated Hamburg–Berlin route, which faces delays in signalling upgrades.

Industry groups argue that without additional resources, many projects could be delayed or cancelled, jeopardising public transport capacity and regional connectivity.