Railway burial work starts in Sundbyberg after delays

Railway tracks in Sundbyberg, Sweden, are set to be buried underground, with preparatory work starting in mid-May. The project, originally planned to be completed last year after an agreement signed in 2013, is now scheduled for completion in 2042, resulting in 16 years of noise and traffic disruptions for residents. The city center of Sundbyberg is the biggest challenge on the entire Mälarbanan line, according to Trafikverket's project manager Erik Lundman, who said the delay is due to underestimating urban congestion 13 years ago.

For one year, parts of Järnvägsgatan and Esplanaden will be closed to car traffic, though pedestrians and cyclists can pass. The first stage involves moving cables and pipes for utilities like electricity, water, and telephony, taking a year. In the longer term, residents on Järnvägsgatan will face significant noise disturbances, with Trafikverket offering hotel stays during shorter periods.

By August 2042, all tracks will be buried, removing a barrier in the municipality and allowing for parkland development. Ayla Eftekhari, chair of the municipal board, stated that long-term decisions are necessary in such cases.