Leipzig-Chemnitz express buses extended until mid-July

The additional express buses between Leipzig and Chemnitz will run until July 15. As announced by Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn (MRB), the buses will run every half hour between the main stations of the two cities without intermediate stops and are intended to relieve the heavily congested RE6 rail line, particularly during peak times.

The measure has been extended in consultation with the Central Saxony Transport Association (VMS). The bus journey time is around one hour and 20 minutes. The regular trains on the RE6 line will reportedly continue to run without any changes.

Search for permanent relief stalled

A spokesperson for MRB explained that they are working hard to find a long-term solution, but are currently unable to present a viable alternative. Various options are being examined, but need to be coordinated with the responsible authorities.

The reason for this is the ongoing tense situation on the important regional connection between Leipzig and the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz. Train cancellations, delays and overcrowded wagons have recently caused repeated criticism. Back in June, the Chemnitz rail initiative spoke of a "total failure" on the line and called for additional capacity - for example, more trains via Riesa or the expansion of the IC connection to Berlin.

Battery trains are still a long time coming

Originally, modern battery-powered trains were to be used on the RE6 line. However, due to delivery problems on the part of the manufacturer, double-decker trains are currently being used as a substitute, which in turn are causing problems.