ProRail Aims to Fix Track Subsidence in Groningen by Saturday
Heavy rainfall caused sinkholes near the Esperantotunnel, disrupting train services between Groningen Central and Europapark. Repairs are ongoing, with resumption expected this weekend.
ProRail continues efforts to repair the track subsidence near the Esperantotunnel in Groningen, aiming to restore train traffic by early Saturday morning, November 30. The subsidence, caused by heavy rainfall washing away sand and ballast under the tracks, has disrupted train services between Groningen Central Station and Groningen Europapark since last weekend.
What Caused the Subsidence?
The issue was discovered during maintenance on Sunday when sand and ballast beneath the track were washed away, even forming a sinkhole in one location. The subsidence affected four key points where the track intersects with a new bicycle tunnel under construction. Rainwater created gaps around sealed-off areas, making the situation worse.
Ongoing Repairs
ProRail is working to stabilise the track by filling the affected areas with sand and ballast. At three points, formwork filled with concrete has been installed to prevent further erosion. The sinkhole, still wet, is being treated differently—sand is being used to create counterpressure and fill the hole.
Impact on Train Services
Train services between Groningen Central and Groningen Europapark remain suspended. NS and Arriva are providing buses as alternatives for passengers. Arriva is also running fewer trains on other routes, including peak-hour services between Groningen-Winschoten, Groningen-Warffum, and Leeuwarden-Sneek, due to limited access to its marshalling yard.
ProRail plans to test the safety of the repaired tracks on Friday, with daily inspections to follow. If all goes well, train traffic is expected to resume on Saturday at 2:00 AM.
For now, passengers are advised to check updated travel schedules and plan for potential delays.