The metro passing through Kulosaari, Helsinki, Finland. Photo: Timo Newton / Flickr
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Helsinki’s metro network will face its longest-ever service disruption in 2027 when traffic is suspended between Kulosaari and Hakaniemi stations for over six months. The interruption is part of a major renovation of the Junatie metro bridge, which links the city’s eastern and central lines.
As part of the project, Kalasatama station will shut down entirely for up to 18 months, according to Helsinki Regional Transport Authority HSL.
The prolonged closure is due to the station’s platforms being directly above the section of the bridge scheduled for replacement.
“The platforms must be dismantled in order to rebuild the bridge deck,” said Antti Nousiainen, who leads asset management for City Transport. “This length of closure is unfortunate, but unavoidable.”
Kalasatama will close six months before the metro disruption begins and remain shut for another six months afterward. Trains will bypass the station entirely during this period.
The affected section, between Kalasatama and Kulosaari, is the busiest part of the Helsinki metro, meaning the closure will have a widespread impact. HSL says it is preparing the most extensive alternative transport arrangements in its history.
“We still have many unresolved questions. This is the largest service disruption ever managed by HSL,” said Johanna Wallin, director of operational planning.
Replacement services and mitigation
To ease the impact, HSL plans to operate replacement bus lines between Hakaniemi and Herttoniemi during the disruption. It will also increase the frequency of several existing routes. Additional connections will be introduced between:
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Herttoniemi and Pasila
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Itäkeskus and Pukinmäki
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Itäkeskus and Malmi
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Mellunmäki, Kontula and Malmi
Planning for the bridge works began earlier this year, and preparatory construction is expected to begin in spring 2026. The city is currently in the process of selecting a contractor.
Laajasalo tram launch to coincide with metro break
While metro users face extended delays, relief may come from another project. The Laajasalo tram line, which has been under construction for several years, is now expected to begin service in the first half of 2027.
Lines 12 and 13 are being designed to terminate in central Helsinki at Mikonkatu, giving both Kalasatama and Laajasalo residents a direct tram connection to the city centre.
The final timeline for both projects will be confirmed once contractors are selected. In the meantime, HSL is urging passengers to prepare for the disruption and follow updates as plans develop.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
