The Gotthard Base Tunnel's western tube has reopened for commercial train traffic after a year of repairs following a derailment incident.

The first commercial train journeyed from Chiasso to Basel early Monday morning, marking a significant milestone in the tunnel's restoration process.

This reopening follows a successful test phase, which concluded last week, allowing for the resumption of regular train services.

By September 2, 2024, the tunnel is expected to be fully operational, accommodating all InterCity, EuroCity, and freight trains between German-speaking Switzerland and Ticino.

This will restore the travel time advantage, enabling passengers to traverse from northern to southern Switzerland an hour faster, with trains running every half hour throughout the day.

The derailment, caused by a wheel fracture, had necessitated extensive repair work over the past year.