Cranger Kirmes clashes with roadworks: restrictions on the RE 2, RE 42 and S 2 services
Due to track renewal works, there will be disruption to rail services from Saturday 8 August to Sunday 23 August 2026. The services affected are the RE 2 (Rhein-Haard-Express), RE 42 (Niers-Haard-Express) and S 2 lines. Passengers should expect train cancellations and partial service disruptions, as well as rail replacement services, on various sections of the route.
Several sections of the route are affected
The construction work is affecting various sections of the line. For example, services on the RE 42 between Münster and Essen Central Station have been completely cancelled. On the RE 2 line, there will be partial cancellations between Haltern am See and Herne Wanne-Eickel Central Station, as well as intermittent cancellations between Haltern am See and Düsseldorf Central Station.
The S 2 service is also affected: services between Recklinghausen Central Station and Herne have been cancelled. In addition, there are restrictions and shortened journeys on other sections of the line.
Deutsche Bahn is organising a rail replacement service (SEV) by bus for all sections affected by the engineering works.
An additional challenge posed by the Cranger Kirmes
During the construction work, the Cranger Kirmes will take place in Herne from 6 to 16 August 2026. Due to the high number of visitors, heavy demand and possible delays are to be expected, particularly on the rail replacement services.
Visitors to the fair and commuters should therefore allow extra time for their journeys to and from the event and check their connections – for example, via the VRR app – and the aforementioned disruptions on zuginfo.nrw before setting off.
Did you know? Be careful at the funfair – pickpocketing on buses and trains
Whether you’re on your way to the Cranger Kirmes, at the station, or on a bus or train: watch out for pickpockets.
In the video, we’ll show you some useful tips. Watch it now!