Bridge drama in Mönchengladbach: rail traffic temporarily paralyzed!
On June 25, 2025, bridge material fell onto the tracks near Mönchengladbach, severely disrupting rail traffic from Cologne.

Bridge drama in Mönchengladbach: rail traffic temporarily paralyzed!
On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, rail travelers on the route between Cologne and Mönchengladbach were suddenly slowed down in an unpleasant way. Falling parts of a bridge had blocked the tracks and caused the route to be closed immediately. Fortunately, there have been no injuries or damaged trains so far, but the disruption is severely affecting the travel plans of many commuters and travelers. Loud Express Several pieces of concrete came loose from the bridge and fell directly onto the tracks, causing train traffic to come to a standstill.
The following changes will apply to the affected trains that start from or end at Cologne Central Station:
- RE8: Züge enden/beginnen in Rheydt-Odenkirchen; Teilausfälle zwischen Rheydt-Odenkirchen und Mönchengladbach Hbf.
- RB27: Züge enden/beginnen in Rheydt Hbf; Teilausfälle zwischen Rheydt Hbf und Mönchengladbach Hbf.
- RB33: Züge aus Hückelhoven-Baal enden/beginnen in Rheydt Hbf; Züge aus Krefeld Hbf enden/beginnen in Mönchengladbach Hbf; Teilausfälle zwischen Mönchengladbach Hbf und Rheydt Hbf.
- RE4: Züge aus Dortmund Hbf enden/beginnen in Mönchengladbach Hbf; Züge aus Aachen Hbf enden/beginnen in Rheydt Hbf; Teilausfälle zwischen Mönchengladbach Hbf und Rheydt Hbf.
- RB34: Züge aus Dalheim enden/beginnen in Rheydt Hbf; Teilausfälle zwischen Rheydt Hbf und Mönchengladbach Hbf.
While the situation on this route is quite tense, train passengers are encouraged by constant announcements and the initiative “Disruptions in rail traffic” informed about the developments. This volunteer group offers support and up-to-date information on the difficulties on the German rail network, from fallen trees to damage to railway systems.
Civil engineer checks bridge
It is currently unclear when the closed route can be reopened. A civil engineer is expected to assess the stability of the bridge to rule out further risks. The earliest estimate for the suspension to be resolved is Thursday morning, June 26, 2025, although this is subject to change depending on the results of the review. Current information and detailed data on train connections are available below bahn.de currently to find.
The interactive disruption map and other functions such as the delay alarm are useful for rail travelers who want to stay up to date. The best strategy for commuters in the region now may be to remain flexible and, if necessary, plan alternative routes in order to reach their destination safely and on time.
In the queue for the next trains, all that remains is to wait and keep our fingers crossed that the lines will soon be running at their usual rhythm again.