The Gotthard train tunnel is likely to stay closed for passengers for months.
A train derailed last week, blocking the important link through the Alps. The closure is beginning to affect supply chains, it’s leading to longer delays at the road tunnel and is costing transport companies thousands of francs a day.
It's hoped one bore will be able to open for freight from Wednesday. For passengers, the closure could last for the rest of the year.
Swiss Federal Railways say the damage is greater than first feared. Around eight kilometers of track will need replacing.
The Italian government is offering its help to clear the tunnel of the stranded train.
Nearby train sidings are full and backlogs are beginning to affect neighbouring countries. Logistics experts say it will take four weeks to get deliveries back to normal.
Accident investigators say they believe the derailment was caused by a broken wheel.
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