What is Elsterwerda station and where is it located?

Elsterwerda station is a railway station situated in the town of Elsterwerda, within the German state of Brandenburg. It is a key stop on the important Berlin–Dresden railway line.

What significant event, besides its normal operations, is Elsterwerda station known for?

Elsterwerda station is notably known for a severe train crash that occurred in 1997. This incident involved a freight train carrying petrol tankers that derailed and subsequently exploded on the station premises.

What are the key features of Elsterwerda station's infrastructure following its reconstruction in the 1990s?

After reconstruction in the 1990s, Elsterwerda station features three platform edges. These include a main platform adjacent to the station building, measuring 300 meters long and 55 cm high, and an island platform, also 300 meters long but 38 cm high.

How are the different platforms at Elsterwerda station connected?

The main platform and the island platform at Elsterwerda station are connected by an underpass, which is accessible via stairs.

Who was responsible for the initial construction of the Elsterwerda station building, and what style was it built in?

The original station building at Elsterwerda was constructed by master mason Friedrich Jage, who later became an honorary citizen of the town. It was built in an American-style timber construction according to the specifications of the Berlin-Dresden Railway Company.

Who served as the first station master at Elsterwerda station?

The first station master appointed at Elsterwerda station was a Mr Bruttloff.

What was the purpose of the excursion trains that ran to Elsterwerda in July 1875?

In July 1875, excursion trains operated from Berlin to Dresden, making a stop at Elsterwerda, in conjunction with an industrial exhibition being held.

How did the opening of the Riesa–Elsterwerda railway impact Elsterwerda?

The opening of the 22 kilometer Riesa–Elsterwerda railway on October 15, 1875, significantly boosted Elsterwerda's economy. The railway became a major economic driver, attracting several industrial companies to Elsterwerda and nearby Biehla, which in turn led to substantial population growth.

How did the population of Elsterwerda change between 1871 and 1910, and what was the primary reason for this growth?

Elsterwerda's population grew considerably between 1871 and 1910. It increased from 1,739 residents in 1871 to 2,537 in 1895, and further to 4,224 by 1910. This growth was largely attributed to the establishment of industries attracted by the town's excellent rail connections.

Who visited Elsterwerda station on a special train in 1888, and how long did the stop last?

Kaiser Wilhelm II, the German Emperor, visited Elsterwerda station on August 27, 1888, aboard a special train. The train made a brief stop of approximately ten minutes at the station.

Was there ever a proposal to build a railway line connecting Elsterwerda to Kamenz?

Yes, in March 1894, a proposal was put forth for the construction of a railway line extending from Elsterwerda to Kamenz. However, this project, like many other proposed railway ventures of that era, was never realized.

What unique administrative situation existed at Elsterwerda station due to its location?

Elsterwerda station served as a border station between the German states of Prussia and Saxony. Consequently, the station's operations were jointly managed by officials from both Prussian and Saxon railway authorities.

What was the reported dynamic between Prussian and Saxon officials managing Elsterwerda station?

According to local accounts, there were disputes between the Prussian and Saxon officials responsible for managing Elsterwerda station, with an anecdote suggesting they would throw inkwells at each other during disagreements.

What was the fate of the Elsterwerda station building during World War II?

During World War II, on April 19, 1945, Elsterwerda station and its facilities were bombed. An ammunition train within the station was hit, causing explosions that severely damaged the railway premises and the town center. The upper storey of the station building was badly damaged and was not rebuilt afterward.

When did train services resume through Elsterwerda station after World War II, and what was the initial scale of railway employment?

Train services resumed through Elsterwerda station shortly after the end of World War II, with the first train running to Berlin on May 11, 1945. By July 1945, the station employed 210 railway workers, and later, the administration overseeing the station, locomotive depot, and Elsterwerda-Biehla station employed approximately 1,000 people.

How did Elsterwerda station's significance change after German reunification?

Following the reunification of Germany, Elsterwerda station experienced significant changes and diminished in importance. Its locomotive depot was closed, and track maintenance operations were relocated. Many employees were either dismissed or transferred to other locations.

When was the Elsterwerda station building reconstructed, and what was the outcome?

The station building at Elsterwerda underwent reconstruction between 1988 and 1991. This renovation resulted in a completely altered appearance for the building, and the new station layout was finalized in March 1992.

What caused the major train derailment and fire at Elsterwerda station on November 20, 1997?

The serious accident on November 20, 1997, was caused by a freight train carrying 22 petrol-filled tank cars derailing at a set of points. The derailment occurred because the train was traveling at 90 km/h in a zone with a speed limit of 40 km/h.

What were the immediate consequences of the 1997 Elsterwerda train derailment and explosions?

The derailment led to two subsequent explosions of the tank cars and a massive fire. This caused severe damage to the station's buildings, infrastructure, the initial fire trucks that responded, other vehicles, and the surrounding precinct. Tragically, two firefighters lost their lives due to the explosion, and several others sustained burns requiring hospital treatment.

What was the scale of the emergency response to the 1997 Elsterwerda train disaster?

The response to the 1997 disaster was extensive, involving 30 fire departments with 310 firefighters working in shifts, utilizing 62 vehicles over a period of 34 hours. Emergency rescue services also participated with 14 vehicles and two helicopters.

What specific errors contributed to the 1997 Elsterwerda train accident, according to the investigation?

The accident investigation revealed multiple errors during an engine replacement and brake test at the previous stop, Berlin-Grünau. These included the driver failing to properly connect brake hoses and open valves, and the train preparation technician misinterpreting brake pressure and resetting the brakes without informing the driver. Crucially, the actual brake test was never completed, leading the driver to believe the train was safe to depart with dysfunctional brakes.

What long-term environmental impact resulted from the 1997 petrol train disaster at Elsterwerda station?

The disaster resulted in approximately 600 metric tonnes of petrol leaking into the soil and the sewage system. Even ten years after the accident, petrol was still being extracted from the ground.

What improvements were made to the station forecourt and bus station area in 2004?

In 2004, the station forecourt at Elsterwerda was completely rebuilt. Several existing buildings in the area were demolished and replaced with green spaces and new platforms for the bus station, with the new works officially inaugurated on August 5, 2004.

What infrastructure upgrades occurred at Elsterwerda station between mid-2014 and July 2015?

Between mid-2014 and July 2015, significant track renewal took place at Elsterwerda station. This included renewing 3.6 kilometers of track, seven switches, constructing a barrier-free pedestrian underpass equipped with two lifts, and building a 320 meter long central platform. Additionally, some tracks and points were dismantled.

What was the purpose of building an electronic signal box in the Elsterwerda area?

An electronic signal box was constructed for the Elsterwerda and Hohenleipisch area between June 2014 and June 2016. This modernization aimed to replace older signalling systems and improve operational efficiency.

When did Elsterwerda station become a stop for Intercity IC trains?

Elsterwerda station was added as a stop for Intercity IC trains starting from December 10, 2017.

What types of long-distance train services call at Elsterwerda station as of 2024?

As of 2024, Elsterwerda station serves several long-distance train services, including ICE 21, ICE 27 which also operates as Railjet, IC 17, and FlixTrain FLX 30.

Which regional express RE lines serve Elsterwerda station, and what are their typical frequencies?

Elsterwerda station is served by two regional express lines: RE 8, which runs towards Berlin Hbf with a frequency of every 120 minutes, and RE 13, which connects to Cottbus operating Monday-Friday only, also with a 120-minute frequency.

What regionalbahn RB services operate from Elsterwerda station?

Elsterwerda station is served by two regionalbahn lines: RB 31, which runs from Elsterwerda-Biehla through Elsterwerda towards Dresden, and RB 45, operated by Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn, which connects Elsterwerda to Chemnitz Hbf, with services running every 120 minutes, and sometimes every 60 minutes.

What is the station code for Elsterwerda station?

The station code for Elsterwerda station is 1569.

What is the DS100 code assigned to Elsterwerda station?

The DS100 code for Elsterwerda station is BEW.

What category has Elsterwerda station been assigned within the German railway station classification system?

Elsterwerda station is classified under Category 4.

Which fare zone does Elsterwerda station belong to within the VBB Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg?

Elsterwerda station is located in fare zone 7858 of the Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg VBB.

What is the official website listed for Elsterwerda station?

The official website provided for Elsterwerda station is www.bahnhof.de.

How many platforms and tracks does Elsterwerda station currently have?

Elsterwerda station has 3 platforms and 7 tracks.

Is Elsterwerda station accessible?

Yes, Elsterwerda station is listed as accessible.

What is depicted in the photograph labeled Exterior view of the station?

The image described as Exterior view of the station shows the outside appearance of the Elsterwerda railway station building.

What does the photograph dated 1923 show regarding Elsterwerda station?

The photograph dated 1923 provides a historical view of the Elsterwerda station building as it looked in that year.

What does the photograph dated 2006 show regarding Elsterwerda station?

The photograph dated 2006 captures the appearance of the Elsterwerda station building during that specific year.

What is the significance of the memorial stone located at Elsterwerda station?

The memorial stone at Elsterwerda station was erected in honor of two firefighters who lost their lives during the major train derailment and fire incident in 1997.

What is the primary railway line that Elsterwerda station is situated on?

Elsterwerda station is located on the Berlin–Dresden railway line.

Besides the main Berlin-Dresden line, what other railway lines are connected to Elsterwerda station?

Elsterwerda station is also connected to the Riesa–Elsterwerda railway designated as KBS 520 and has a connecting curve to Elsterwerda-Biehla station designated as KBS 225.

What was the economic impact of the railway on Elsterwerda in the years following its opening?

The railway's presence transformed Elsterwerda into a significant economic hub. It attracted industrial companies to the area, leading to a notable increase in the town's population and overall development.

What role did Elsterwerda station play during the Allied air raids in April 1945?

During the Allied air raids in April 1945, Elsterwerda station was directly targeted and bombed on April 19. The explosion of an ammunition train stored at the station caused extensive damage to the railway facilities and the town center.

What happened to the damaged engine shed at Elsterwerda station after the 1997 disaster?

Following the severe damage sustained during the 1997 train derailment and fire, the engine shed at Elsterwerda station was demolished and has not been rebuilt.

What is the daily passenger volume at Elsterwerda station, according to the provided data?

The daily passenger volume at Elsterwerda station is estimated to be less than 2,500 passengers per day.

What type of freight facilities are mentioned in relation to Elsterwerda station?

Elsterwerda station has a siding that leads into the Elsterwerda-West industrial area, and it also features a container terminal.

What specific track and platform improvements were made at Elsterwerda station between 2014 and 2016?

Between 2014 and 2016, Elsterwerda station saw the renewal of 3.6 kilometers of track and seven switches. A barrier-free pedestrian underpass with two lifts was constructed, along with a 320 meter long central platform, while other tracks and points were removed.

What is the significance of the DS100 code mentioned for Elsterwerda station?

The DS100 code BEW is a standardized abbreviation used within the German railway network to uniquely identify Elsterwerda station for operational and administrative purposes.

What does the IBNR number signify for Elsterwerda station?

The IBNR number 8010099 for Elsterwerda station is an international identifier used for railway stations.

Elsterwerda Station Wiki: Elsterwerda Station: A Nexus of Rail History and Resilience

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General Information

Location & Coordinates

Elsterwerda station is situated at Am Bahnhof 1, in the town of Elsterwerda, Brandenburg, Germany. Its geographical coordinates are 51.46028° N, 13.51639° E.

Ownership & Operation

The station is owned by Deutsche Bahn. Operation is managed by two key entities within Deutsche Bahn: DB Netz for infrastructure and DB Station&Service for station services.

Lines & Connectivity

It serves as a crucial junction on the Berlin–Dresden railway. Additionally, it is part of the Riesa–Elsterwerda railway (KBS 520) and connects via a curve to Elsterwerda-Biehla station (KBS 225).

Codes & Zones

The station is identified by code 1569, with a DS100 code of BEW and an IBNR of 8010099. It falls under Category 4 and is located within the VBB (Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg) fare zone 7858.

Official Information

For official details and timetables, please visit the Deutsche Bahn station information portal at www.bahnhof.de.

Infrastructure Details

Platforms & Access

Elsterwerda station features three platform edges. The main platform, adjacent to the station building, measures 300 meters in length and stands at a height of 55 centimeters. An island platform is also available, measuring 300 meters long and 38 centimeters high. Access between platforms is facilitated by an underpass, reachable via stairs, ensuring connectivity for passengers.

Track Configuration

The station is equipped with a total of 7 tracks, supporting its role as a significant point on the regional and long-distance rail network. This configuration allows for efficient train movements and management.

Accessibility

The station is designated as accessible, indicating that efforts have been made to accommodate passengers with mobility needs, including features like the barrier-free underpass and lifts installed during recent renovations.

Historical Trajectory

Foundation and Early Growth

Constructed in the distinctive "American" timber style by master mason Friedrich Jage, Elsterwerda station officially opened on June 17, 1875, coinciding with the inauguration of the Berlin-Dresden railway. Its strategic location quickly propelled it to become a vital economic engine for the city, fostering industrial growth and significant population increases throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Royal Visit and Border Significance

A notable event in the station's early history was a brief stop by Emperor Wilhelm II on August 27, 1888. Historically, Elsterwerda served as a border station between Prussia and Saxony, leading to a unique administrative arrangement where Prussian and Saxon railway officials shared operational duties, sometimes marked by notable disputes.

Wartime Damage and Post-War Revival

During World War II, the station sustained significant damage from Allied air raids on April 19, 1945, particularly affecting the upper storey of the station building. Following the war, extensive cleanup and repair efforts commenced, enabling the resumption of vital rail services by May 11, 1945. Elsterwerda station became a major hub, employing approximately 1,000 railway workers in its post-war administration.

Post-Reunification Transformation

The reunification of Germany brought profound changes. Elsterwerda's significance diminished as its locomotive depot and track maintenance operations were closed or relocated. The station building underwent reconstruction between 1988 and 1991, resulting in a modernized appearance, with the new layout finalized in March 1992.

The 1997 Derailment and Fire

Catastrophic Event

On November 20, 1997, a devastating accident occurred when a freight train carrying 22 petrol-filled tank cars derailed within the station premises due to excessive speed (90 km/h in a 40 km/h zone). The subsequent explosions and intense fire caused severe damage to the station buildings, infrastructure, and surrounding areas. Tragically, two firefighters lost their lives shortly after arriving at the scene, with several others sustaining burn injuries.

Root Cause Analysis

An investigation revealed critical errors during an engine change at the preceding station, Berlin-Grünau. Deficiencies in brake system checks, including failure to connect hoses and open valves, coupled with misinterpretations of brake pressure readings and inadequate communication between the driver and a technician, led to the train departing with dysfunctional brakes. These cumulative failures resulted in the catastrophic derailment upon approaching Elsterwerda.

Aftermath and Environmental Impact

The disaster necessitated the demolition of the heavily damaged engine shed. While the station building was renovated, the environmental consequences were substantial, with approximately 600 metric tonnes of petrol seeping into the soil and sewage system. Remediation efforts continued for over a decade to mitigate the long-term environmental impact.

Current Rail Services

Service Overview

Elsterwerda station serves as a key stop for various national and regional rail operators, offering connections across Germany. The following services were in operation as of December 10, 2023:

Line	Route	Frequency (min)
ICE 21	Dresden – Elsterwerda – Berlin – Eberswalde – Stralsund – Ostseebad Binz	One train on Sat
ICE 27 Railjet	Berlin-Charlottenburg ← Berlin – Elsterwerda – Dresden – Bad Schandau – Praha hl.n. – Brno – Wien – Wiener Neustadt – Graz	One train pair
IC 17	(Chemnitz – Freiberg (Sachs) –) Dresden – Dresden-Neustadt – Elsterwerda – Doberlug-Kirchhain – BER Airport – Berlin Hbf – Berlin Gesundbrunnen – Oranienburg – Neustrelitz – Rostock – Warnemünde	120
RE 8	Elsterwerda – Doberlug-Kirchhain – Luckau-Uckro – Wünsdorf-Waldstadt – Berlin Südkreuz – Berlin Hbf	120
RE 13	Elsterwerda – Elsterwerda-Biehla – Ruhland – Senftenberg – Cottbus (Mon-Fri only)	120
RB 31	Elsterwerda-Biehla – Elsterwerda – Großenhain Cottb Bf – Coswig (b Dresden) – Cossebaude – Dresden-Friedrichstadt – Dresden	120
RB 45	Elsterwerda – Tiefenau – Riesa – Döbeln – Waldheim – Mittweida – Chemnitz	120 (60 at times)
FLX 30	Dresden – Elsterwerda – Berlin – Hannover – Dortmund – Essen – Düsseldorf – Köln – Aachen	Some trains
As of 10 December 2023

Station Location

Interactive Map

Explore the station's surroundings and its connectivity within the region via the interactive map below.

Additionally, a siding connects to the industrial area of Elsterwerda-West, and a container terminal is present, highlighting the station's role beyond passenger transport.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Elsterwerda station Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. It does not constitute official information from Deutsche Bahn or any other railway authority.

This is not official railway advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official railway documentation, timetables, or seeking advice from qualified transportation professionals. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information regarding train services, schedules, and station details.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein. Users are advised to verify critical information through official channels before making travel plans or decisions.

Elsterwerda Station

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Infrastructure Details 🏗️

🚉 Platforms & Access

🛤️ Track Configuration

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Historical Trajectory 📜

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👑 Royal Visit and Border Significance

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🔄 Post-Reunification Transformation

The 1997 Derailment and Fire 🔥

🚨 Catastrophic Event

🔍 Root Cause Analysis

Cleanup Aftermath and Environmental Impact

Current Rail Services 🚄

📊 Service Overview

Station Location 🗺️

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

General Information

Location & Coordinates

Ownership & Operation

Lines & Connectivity

Codes & Zones

Official Information

Infrastructure Details

Platforms & Access

Track Configuration

Accessibility

Historical Trajectory

Foundation and Early Growth

Royal Visit and Border Significance

Wartime Damage and Post-War Revival

Post-Reunification Transformation

The 1997 Derailment and Fire

Catastrophic Event

Root Cause Analysis

Aftermath and Environmental Impact

Current Rail Services

Service Overview

Station Location

Interactive Map

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice