Starting in December 2006, high speed tests are planned in the new Lötschberg Base Tunnel up to a maximum speed of 280 km/h. In Switzerland, there are currently no suitable vehicles for such high speeds. The Cisalpino 'Pendolino' train sets of the next generation will run through the tunnel at a maximum speed of 250 km/h, but they are not yet available. Therefore ICE-S train sets have been hired from the German Railways DB AG for these tests. The alternative would have been to use a Cisalpino II mock-up as shown on the cartoon.
The Battle of Erstfeld
Legal proceedings have started following the award of the last major construction contract for the northern part of the Gotthard Base tunnel. The appeal by the unsuccessful bidder has caused delays and additional costs. The Swiss Federal Minister of Finance is certainly worried about the extra costs. The Minister of Transport, Mr. Moritz Leuenberger, tries to mediate between the disputing parties. On the cartoon he is shown as the Saint Niklaus von Flüe who arbitrated in a Swiss dispute in the 15th Century and prevented a civil war.
Students as part-time engine drivers
The Swiss Federal Railways are recruiting students as part-time engine drivers for the commuter trains in the Zurich area. The first six students have started their training in May 2006 and will be driving trains on two lines of Zurich S-Bahn on weekends from May 2007 onwards. Will these students arrange the driver's cabs of the new double decker trains as shown on the cartoon?
Better Chances for the Future of Eurotunnel
At the end of November 2006, the major creditors and suppliers have accepted a restructuring plan to put Eurotunnel on a sound financial basis. This increases the chances for the continuation of the railway operation through the Channel Tunnel. Several financial companies, among them Deutsche Bank, have made proposals to finance the restructuring process.
