Fire, Vandalism, and a Car Crash Halt Train Traffic in Germany, Stranding 900 Passengers

Train services in Germany experienced a major disruption on a vital line connecting Hanover and Berlin, following two consecutive incidents that paralyzed operations and frustrated hundreds of passengers. It began with a mysterious fire at a signal unit near Hanover, which is suspected to be an act of vandalism, followed by a shocking car accident that significantly complicated the situation.

Following the fire, a drunk driver crashed into a concrete barrier in the town of Kleefeld near Hanover, causing his car to fall onto the train tracks. This incident caused severe damage to the overhead electrical wires, leading to the immediate halt of a high-speed train carrying approximately 900 passengers, including 400 football fans.

Although no serious injuries were reported among the passengers, the long wait inside the train resulted in several medical emergencies, including dehydration cases. Emergency services and railway staff conducted an organized evacuation of the passengers. Some walked to the nearby town of Kleefeld, while others were transported by bus to Hanover Central Station.

The intoxicated driver was found at the crash site. Despite his car being completely overturned, he did not appear to have serious injuries. Deutsche Bahn, the German railway company, announced that the fire at the signal unit was likely an act of "vandalism," confirming that delays and cancellations on the affected line would continue until the overhead wires are fully repaired.