What happens next?
As DB explained, the choice was between a partial or a full tunnel. After two and a half years of discussion, it was decided that “the full tunnel variant is the best solution for the environment as well as in terms of traffic, technology and economy”. Concerning the next steps, a Public Debate involving citizens will commence in January next year. By mid-2024, the preferred variant should be finally determined. After that, the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag) will start its consultation. Various German media, including Süeddeusche Zeitung, stated that construction of the tunnel should start in 2032 and is estimated to take about 12 years.
