Netz 21 programme at DB AG
Netz 21 (Network 21), an intiative for network optimisation, was drawn up by
the German DB AG in the 1990s. The concept includes restructuring,
standardisation, demixing and speed harmonisation, clearance of bottlenecks, the
use of new technologies and a better exhaustion of transport potentials.
The eventual goal is a continuous performance network with higher customer
usage and higher capacity at substantially lower cost. DB plans the step-by-step
implementation to be finished by 2010.
Demixing of lines is a key element of Netz 21. The project foresees dividing
up the entire network into three categories:
- a demixed “Vorrangnetz” (priority network, total track length ~10.000 km):
this part of the network connects big agglomeration areas (big cities) and
includes all those lines with clear speed priorities, i.e. tracks with high,
medium or low speeds respectively. Railway operators may only run their trains
on these lines if their trains run at the respective priority speed or if they
can ensure that their trains do not disturb other trains at any time.
- a mixed “Leistungsnetz” (performance network, ~10.000 km) for mixed
main-line and local-line passenger as well as freight traffic.
- a mixed “Regionalnetz” (regional network, ~17.500 km) supplements the
other two networks.
DB AG estimates that the capacity of the priority and performance networks
will be increased by Netz 21 by about 30%. |