Petersdotter: How to strengthen rail traffic in the north - Schleswig-Holstein's Green Party revives rail lines to cut emissions and boost growth

Schleswig-Holstein's Green Party is pushing for major improvements to the region's rail network. Lasse Petersdotter, the leader of the party's parliamentary group, wants better services for both passengers and freight. Her plans include reviving old lines, building new ones, and expanding local connections.

Since 2020, two key projects have moved forward under these plans. The Fehmarnbelt Tunnel rail link received German construction approval on 3 November 2020, following a ruling by the Bundesverwaltungsgericht in Leipzig. Work on the island of Fehmarn will begin in December 2025, with track preparations continuing into 2026.

Other routes are also being revived. The line between Neumünster and Bad Oldesloe is set for upgrades, while the route to Flensburg harbour will reopen. Another project aims to restore the rail connection from Geesthacht to Hamburg-Bergedorf. Petersdotter sees these expansions as vital for cutting emissions and meeting passenger demand.

She also highlights the Deutschlandticket, the nationwide €49 monthly travel pass, as a major step in transport policy. According to her, stronger rail networks support both economic growth and security planning.

The Green Party's focus on rail aims to boost connectivity across Schleswig-Holstein. New and upgraded lines, alongside the Deutschlandticket, are expected to increase passenger numbers and reduce environmental impact. Petersdotter's strategy ties transport improvements to broader economic and security goals.