Construction has been underway over the train station since February 2022. The opened tunnel ceiling was temporarily covered with tarpaulins. Photo: Ufuk Ucta
By Sara Orlos Fernandes
Construction botch on Ullsteinstrasse: The subway station filled with rainwater and therefore had to be closed. It was a matter of time that the accident occurred.
A gate has been blocking the way to the tracks since Friday and the U6 trains have not stopped. The extent of the water damage can still be seen from the rolling train on Monday: puddles have formed on the platform and water continues to drip from the ceiling.
Because of the water damage, the train did not stop at the Ullsteinstrasse subway station for three days Photo: Ufuk Ucta
The accident has been announced for the past few months. During heavy rains, water repeatedly got into the station. Reason: During the renovation of the station, the tunnel ceiling was opened and temporarily covered with tarpaulins. Construction work has stalled since then.
When it rains, water always gets onto the platform through the ceiling. Due to the water damage, the train is currently not stopping at the Ullsteinstrasse subway station Photo: Sara Orlos Fernandes
BVG wants to divert water in the future
When asked, the BVG said: “While the renovation is still ongoing, so-called layer water may seep in after rainfall. However, further measures have now been taken to divert any water that accumulates.”
The closure was done as a precautionary measure. There have been stops at the station again since Monday afternoon. Renovation work on the platform will follow, then work on the tunnel ceiling will continue.
The renovation of the station is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024. Passengers hope that there will not be another closure due to the leaky ceiling by then.
Resident Silvio D. (72) in front of the cordoned off subway entrance: “It always drips in here when it rains. Although the ceiling has been repaired for a long time, I don’t know why it’s taking so long. Unfortunately, there’s no information either. Because I don’t drive, I rely on the train.” Photo: Ufuk Ucta