Congestion on Public Holidays: Berlin Roadways Mires in Traffic Snarl-ups
Preparing for Traffic Congestion Over Ascension Day Weekend in Germany
As thelong weekend approaching Ascension Day draws near, motorways in Berlin and Brandenburg are projected to experience significant congestion, starting as early as the day before the holiday. With a bridge day, residents are anticipated to take advantage of the opportunity for short trips and outings, potentially straining the motorways even further, according to Autobahn GmbH Nordost.
Specifically, the A10 between junctions Phöben and Leest near Werder an der Havel, the Dreieck Potsdam, and the area between Erkner and Berlin-Hellersdorf are particularly at risk for congestion. Meanwhile, the A13 section between Calau and Großrạschen is also predicted to face increased traffic.
In addition to the increased holiday travel demand, ongoing roadworks such as those on the A10, A13, A2, A9, and A24 routes, as well as those leading to Berlin and northern Germany, could exacerbate the situation.
The ADAC has also warned of heavy traffic and congestion on the A2 from Berlin to Dortmund, the A9 from Berlin to Munich, and the A24 from Hamburg to the Berliner Ring. Delays on these major connections to Poland and the Netherlands are to be expected, according to the ADAC. Upon returning to Germany, longer waiting times due to reinforced border controls are likely. All travelers are advised to have identification documents, including children.
Longer waiting times at German borders are a possibility, especially with good weather, as travel and outing traffic is estimated to rise from May 28th to June 1st. The ADAC expects slow progress in a stop-and-go manner on many routes between 13:00 and 19:00 on Wednesday.
Although truck traffic bans will be in place on Ascension Day (00:00-22:00), heavy vehicle congestion could still shift to alternative routes and passenger vehicles, potentially increasing the pressure on these routes during the holiday weekend.
Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead by avoiding peak travel times, checking for roadworks, considering alternatives, and preparing for possible delays. Real-time traffic apps and official motorway websites are useful tools for staying informed about current construction and delays.
Trucks are advised to adhere to the truck traffic ban, and all travelers, especially those crossing borders, should carry identification documents, including children. Delays are expected at border posts, particularly with Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
In the case of rail services, they too are expected to be crowded, so early booking or reservation is advisable for those considering rail travel. Cyclists and pedestrians are also encouraged to take precautions and be aware of potential hazards caused by increased traffic.
For those looking to avoid the motorways altogether, alternative modes of transportation such as local buses, trams, and trains could provide a less congested means of travel during the Ascension Day weekend.
In summary, the Ascension Day weekend is projected to result in significant congestion on Germany's motorways, particularly along the A10, A13, A2, A9, and A24 routes as well as areas leading to Berlin and northern Germany. Delays are possible at border crossings, especially with neighboring countries observing similar holiday periods, and additional safety precautions are advisable for cyclists, pedestrians, and travelers using rail services.
Travelers planning trips during the Ascension Day weekend should be mindful of the predicted heavy traffic and congestion on German motorways, particularly on the A10, A13, A2, A9, and A24 routes, as the good weather might encourage more road trips and outings. To avoid delays, travelers are advised to plan ahead by avoiding peak travel times, checking for roadworks, and considering alternative modes of transportation such as local buses, trams, and trains.
