Signal box problems at Hackescher Markt: S-Bahn in chaos again!

Signal box problems at Hackescher Markt: S-Bahn in chaos again!

In Berlin there have been repeated disruptions in S-Bahn traffic in recent weeks, which have had a significant impact on the everyday lives of many commuters. On August 14, 2025, the Berlin S-Bahn reported that the defective signal box at Hackescher Markt had now been repaired. This announcement, which was published on the S-Bahn website on Wednesday evening, followed several incidents in which the signal box was affected on both Monday and Wednesday. The effects were particularly noticeable on the light rail, where there were delays and timetable changes, as rbb24 reported.

The background to these disorders is complex. The technological backbone of the S-Bahn, the track vacancy notification, is criticized. This technology, which indicates whether a train is in a certain area, is now outdated and dates back to the 90s. Michael Klein, spokesman for Deutsche Bahn, emphasized the urgency of an exchange so that passengers no longer have to wait for reliable connections. The plan envisages converting the entire control and safety technology on around 340 kilometers of the Berlin S-Bahn within the next few years, with early implementation being the aim.

Staff shortages and business interruptions

Another critical point is the staff shortages in the signal box area. Robert Seifert, an employee of the S-Bahn, pointed out the precarious situation. Last weekend there were hours-long disruptions in southeast Berlin, affecting thousands of passengers, especially those traveling to BER Airport or Schöneweide. The staff shortage, due to illness and vacation time, contributes significantly to the absences, as Berliner Zeitung explains.

In particular, the dependence on signal box staff makes the S-Bahn network vulnerable. Similar to air traffic controllers, dispatchers control train traffic and set signals and switches. A lack of these specialists has an immediate impact on driving operations. On the morning of July 19th, six S-Bahn lines had to operate to a limited extent due to a similar staff shortage. An emergency bus service was set up to intercept travelers and ease the burden.

Technological advances on the horizon

On the technological side, the switch to electronic signal boxes is planned, which will enable central control and thus increase flexibility. Currently, a large part of the S-Bahn in Berlin controls electronic systems, but there are still manual sections that are also affected by a lack of staff. A new electronic signal box is scheduled to go into operation in the fall, while another in Schöneweide is planned for 2027, according to a report by Tagesschau.

The Berlin S-Bahn is therefore faced with a number of challenges that affect both technical and personnel aspects. A quick solution seems necessary so that commuting Berliners no longer have to suffer from the consequences of old technology and a lack of staff.