Survey on the draft noise action plan for railroads

The new draft of the noise action plan for federal railroads is now online. This also marks the start of the second phase of public participation. Until January 2, 2024, citizens can take part in a survey via the Federal Railway Authority's participation platform(link is external) and express their opinion on the draft and the procedure. Local authorities can also participate via a separate survey.

The feedback will be evaluated, reviewed and incorporated into the noise action plan. The plan aims to reduce environmental noise pollution along the main railroad lines in the long term.

Five steps to the noise action plan

The noise action plan is drawn up in five steps: First, noise mapping took place. The Federal Railway Authority calculated noise maps for all railroad lines. Citizens were then able to provide information on their individual noise situation during the first participation phase in March and April 2023. They were also able to comment on the effects of noise and noise protection measures. 339 municipalities, 55 conurbations and around 11,000 people gave their opinion.

The results of the survey and further information can be found in the now published draft of the noise action plan. The second participation phase currently underway is the fourth step. The results of the two phases of public participation will be incorporated into the final noise action plan.