Grunerstraße tunnel repairs drag on, snarling Berlin traffic for weeks
Repairs on the Grunerstraße tunnel near Alexanderplatz are taking far longer than expected. The work has caused ongoing traffic disruptions, with only one lane open in each direction. Drivers must now obey a strict 10 km/h speed limit while passing through the affected section.
The tunnel was initially set for a shorter closure, but engineers discovered far worse damage than anticipated. Extreme temperature swings in recent months had weakened the tunnel's grating systems and drainage channels. A temporary fix for the right lane failed, forcing crews to replace the entire section instead.
The left lane received an interim solution, allowing it to reopen at a heavily reduced speed. However, the right lane remains fully closed for a complete overhaul. The timeline for full reopening now depends on the arrival of specialised drainage parts, which could take several more weeks.
Authorities have extended the partial closure until at least the end of April. Until then, traffic will continue to face delays, with only one lane available in each direction.
The Grunerstraße tunnel repairs have stretched beyond original estimates due to the severity of the damage. Motorists should expect ongoing restrictions, including reduced lanes and a 10 km/h limit, until the drainage components arrive and full repairs are completed.
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