Heat Damage: Leipzig Trams Are Running Again

Following extensive heat-related damage to Leipzig’s tram network, seven lines are now back in service, at least partially. This means that all city districts are once again connected, according to the Leipzig Public Transportation Authority (LVB). At the same time, the authority continues to rely on volunteers to get the tracks back up and running. To that end, a call for volunteers has been issued for this Saturday—for the third time—from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

In recent days, volunteers have already been helping to repair damage to the tracks with shovels and trowels. “This collective effort is what I consider typical of Leipzig,” explained Torsten Bonew (CDU), the city’s finance mayor. “Now we’re seeing trams running in our city again.”

Extreme Heat Softens Joint Sealant—Experts on the Scene

According to LVB, the extreme heat—with temperatures around 40 degrees—had softened the joint sealant in many places throughout the tram network. The trams had pushed this material out and spread it across the tracks and switches with their wheels—up to five millimeters thick. As a result, tram service was suspended for safety reasons.

According to reports, a TÜV expert has since begun analyzing the causes of the damage. In addition to a visual inspection, this also includes material samples. The results are to be incorporated into upcoming construction projects.