Storm in Brienz
Due to the heavy thunderstorms on Monday evening, August 12, 2024, the Milibach in Brienz overflowed its banks at around 6:30 pm. The debris, consisting of stones, rocks and wood, caused a collector above the village to overflow and the debris flowed uncontrollably into the Seematte, Rybi and Steiner parts of the village and around the church. Buildings, parked vehicles, roads and public transport infrastructure were damaged.
The rain and thunderstorm cell that fell over the village on Monday evening also hit Brienz Rothorn Railway hard.
A stretch of 2.2 kilometers shows severe structural damage to the route, the stone bed foundation and the drainage. In addition, the ballast is contaminated over a length of 1.4 kilometers.
Operation suspended with immediate effect
It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that the operation of Brienz Rothorn Railway will be suspended for the current season due to the massive damage caused by the storm. The rain and thunderstorm cell that fell over Brienz on Monday evening hit our railroad line hard. Following a comprehensive damage assessment, we have determined that it is not possible to resume operations before the planned end of the season.
The repair work will take several months and we currently expect the costs to be around CHF 5 million. Our aim is to resume rail operations in May 2025. Unfortunately, we also have to suspend operations at Mountain hotel Rothorn Kulm with immediate effect.
Guests who have already made bookings for this season will be informed personally by us as soon as possible. They will receive all the necessary information to refund or cancel their bookings. We ask our guests for their understanding and patience while we manage this extraordinary situation and take all the necessary organizational steps.
We deeply regret this situation and thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time.
Support for the reconstruction of the Brienz Rothorn Railway
How you can help:
We cordially invite all friends of Brienz Rothorn Railway, guests and supporters to help us in these difficult times. Every donation, regardless of the amount, helps us to carry out the necessary repairs and secure the future of the BRB.
You can easily make your donation via our patrons' association. The association is highly committed to ensuring the continued existence of our traditional railroad.
With your support, we hope to be able to take guests on the trip to the Brienzer Rothorn again soon. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity and solidarity in these challenging times.
Media release
16.08.2024 - Media communication Operation is discontinued
13.08.2024 - Media release severe weather Brienz
