Traffic chaos in Cologne: A57 closure starting tonight! Danger of traffic jams!

Traffic chaos in Cologne: A57 closure starting tonight! Danger of traffic jams!

Drivers in Cologne must prepare for traffic disruptions from today, September 18, 2025. Extensive construction work is beginning on the A57, in the Ehrenfeld area, and will last until September 19th. This work should affect the Krefeld route to Inner Kanalstrasse, with two right-hand lanes closed and the roadway thus narrowed to a single lane. This is a clear case of “there’s something going on” for commuters and travelers traveling this route.

The construction site will be active from 9:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning, which could lead to increased traffic volume, especially in the late evening hours. Loud [news.de](https://www.news.de/auto/858950191/verkehrsmelde-nw-koeln-zur-verkehrsstoerung-wegen-baustelle-von -18-09-2025-to-19-09-2025-restrictions-in-traffic-north-rhine-westphalia-danger of traffic jams-in-ehrenfeld-on-a57/1/) Traffic jams are also possible during this time. Drivers are asked to reduce their speed and consider alternative routes if necessary.

Traffic information and current traffic jams

In addition to the planned construction site work, there are currently several traffic jams on the A57. There was already a traffic jam between Moers and Meerbusch this morning that was 11.6 km long and, according to information from staumelder-karte.de, meant a time loss of up to six minutes. Further traffic jams were reported between Cologne-Bickendorf and Cologne-Ehrenfeld, which also caused time delays. The color codes for the different traffic conditions range from green for free travel to black for road closures and show that the traffic is currently challenging.

The A57 offers a total distance of 119 km, starting at the Goch border crossing all the way to Cologne-Ehrenfeld. The current construction site is placing additional strain on the already demanding infrastructure of the motorway network. Even if some sections of the route have been expanded, it will take time until the measures are fully implemented.

Planning for the future

What does this mean for the future? According to current information, there will be further traffic restrictions on the A57 from September 22, 2025. There will be disruptions between Cologne-Bickendorf and Cologne-Ehrenfeld from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. For anyone who needs a quick ride, this could be a challenge.

If you are in the region and need a rental car, remember that there are certain payment arrangements that must be followed when renting. According to ADAC, bookings can be made up to 24 hours in advance via PayPal, while short-term bookings are only possible with a credit card. It is also important that a credit card in the driver's name is required for the deposit, as cash payment is not accepted. This information can be helpful for travelers in the region to ensure their mobility despite traffic restrictions.

The coming days will offer many exciting and challenging moments for all road users in Cologne. Stay informed and plan your trips well so that you reach your destination safely!