Reopening uncertain

U2 remains closed: Management admits mistakes

The U2 is running on the main line again, but these are only test runs.(Bild: Martin A. Jöchl)

The date for the reopening of the purple line remains uncertain, while technical challenges and external delays pose major challenges for Wiener Linien.

Wiener Linien provided another update on the closure of the U2 main line on Monday. Unfortunately, the hoped-for answer to the question of when the purple line will be able to run continuously again did not materialize. The 200 platform screen door modules in the Rathaus-Karlsplatz stations were successfully connected to the technical systems. Together with the numerous successfully completed test and adjustment runs in recent weeks, important milestones have been reached.

However, the externally contracted French companies responsible for the new platform screen doors and the associated software experienced delays in meeting time-critical milestones. 

Managing Director Alexandra Reinagl also admits to her own management errors. There were language barriers when translating the contract. These in turn delayed the expert opinion and the trial operation. In any case, the pressure on the external companies was increased. However, the test runs are also time-consuming, as the semi-automatic operation of the U2 and the fully automatic operation of the U5 are being tested at the same time.

The next update is scheduled for November. Hopefully with an opening date.