Old becomes new

This week marked the start of the electrification of the Graz–Köflach Railway (GKB). As part of this, several aging structures are also being renewed, including the bridge over the Weisse Sulm on the Lieboch–Wies–Eibiswald section of the line. The riveted steel truss, weighing approx. 40 tonnes and spanning around 21 m, was lifted out in one piece using a rail crane, making way for a new structure. The new superstructure will be built as a steel trough bridge with an orthotropic deck. In addition, a cycle path underpass in reinforced concrete construction will be built at the Wies abutment. The structure is being designed and structurally supported by Thomas Lorenz ZT GmbH. The line is scheduled to be reopened for operations in early September.