In 2022, on behalf of ProRail, Swietelsky Rail carried out major track maintenance between Culemborg and Tricht. Over a stretch of approximately 4.5 kilometres, we stabilised the track bed with a special foundation layer and, among other works, renewed cables and pipelines, drainage, overhead line equipment and the track itself (ballast, sleepers and rails).

Unstable track bed and speed restriction

On the section between Culemborg and Tricht, trains temporarily operated at a reduced speed due to an unstable track bed. A stable track is essential to ensure the safety and continuity of rail services. That is why, in 2022, Swietelsky renewed the track on behalf of ProRail. 

 
Over a length of approximately 4.5 kilometres, we installed a special foundation layer beneath the track to stabilise the track bed for the long term. In addition, we relocated and replaced various cables and pipelines and ensured effective drainage. We also renewed the overhead line equipment and the overhead line portals, and replaced the ballast, sleepers and rails. The work took place between February and autumn 2022.

Planning and execution

To minimise disruption to rail services, we carried out much of the work at night. Part of the work took place during possessions (periods when no trains were running).

Indicative schedule (completed)

• January–April 2022: preparatory work (cable and pipeline works, investigations and baseline measurements, setting up construction sites/depots)
• 28 April–4 May 2022: possession
• May–July 2022: further set-up of construction depots, delivery of materials and equipment, monitoring of overhead line portals
• 14 July–6 August 2022: possession
• August–December 2022: construction sites/depots cleared and outstanding items rectified

Handover

Since 6 August 2022, trains have been running again and the main works were completed. In the period that followed, we carried out finishing works and cleared the temporary construction depots and worksites.