German government unveils five-year rail infrastructure plan to boost reliability

The Bundesverkehrsministerium released a comprehensive "Infraplan" that aims to make the German rail system more transparent, trustworthy and reliable over the next five years. Covering 2026-2030, the document maps out projects for track refurbishment, digital upgrades, electrification, station remodels, noise mitigation and new line construction, each illustrated on maps. Eight federal steering metrics—including annual new track kilometres and delay minutes—will be monitored, with provisions for corrective steering if targets slip.

The plan calls for tighter alignment of the annual plan with the federal budget and InfraGO's corporate planning. A future rail infrastructure fund, inspired by Switzerland, is proposed to provide stable, multi-year financing beyond the annual budget cycle. Experts praised the initiative as a significant first step but warned that clear prioritisation and binding financing are still needed.