Swiss rail disrupted by avalanche and station damage

Swiss rail passengers are facing major disruptions in both western and southern Switzerland on Monday following separate incidents on key parts of the network.

In the canton of Valais, a regional BLS RegioExpress train derailed early Monday morning near Goppenstein, between the Lötschberg tunnel exit and Hohtenn, after an avalanche is believed to have crossed the tracks. Police and railway operators confirmed that the derailment occurred at around 7 a.m. local time, with approximately 29 passengers on board. All travelers were evacuated, but authorities say there are probable injuries, with at least five people hurt — one taken to hospital in Sion and four treated at the scene.

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF) report that traffic on the Frutigen–Brig line is suspended between Goppenstein and Brig due to the avalanche and derailment. Delays, cancellations and restrictions are expected to remain in place through Tuesday morning as emergency services and rail crews work on recovery and safety assessments.

Important Lausanne-Renens corridor interrupted following act of vandalism

Meanwhile, in western Switzerland, the rail network around Lausanne is experiencing a separate and unrelated disruption. Services have been halted between Lausanne and Prilly‑Malley since Sunday evening after about 40 cables were damaged by fire in Lausanne station.

Initial reports suggest the damage was caused by a pyrotechnic device thrown from a supporter’s train following a local football match, though investigations continue.

As a result, no trains are running on the Lausanne–Prilly‑Malley segment, significantly impacting services toward Renens and beyond and affecting both regional and long‑distance schedules including Lyria trains to Paris.

The SBB/CFF confirmed that crews are working around the clock to restore operations, but full service is not expected before Thursday at the earliest. The line will remain closed until Tuesday, 17 February, with 30 replacement buses and two shuttle buses currently operating to carry passengers between affected stations. Commuters should anticipate continued restrictions even once partial service resumes.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to check official SBB/CFF service updates before setting out and to consider alternative connections where possible.