Coal Shuttle 2024
Two days of full steam with 52.8079 between Leipzig, Gera, and Saalfeld.
With the end of lignite-fired power generation at the Chemnitz-Küchwald combined heat and power plant, the coal wagons stored at the Profen freight yard were no longer needed. There was a risk that the wagons would be removed on short notice. This presented the perfect opportunity to once again organize a photo train run between Leipzig, Gera, and Saalfeld with our highly motivated team. As before, the impeccably maintained locomotive 52.8079 from Leipzig was used. On Friday, the relevant track sections and photo locations were cleared of overgrowth, and the train of wagons was cleaned of graffiti to ensure optimal photographic conditions. The event was further enhanced by the presence of vintage road vehicles and extras. A definite highlight was the scene at the Zauschwitz block post (Bk Zauschwitz): after our photo train had passed, five vehicles drove across the level crossing without interruption—an absolutely incredible moment! We extend our thanks to everyone who supported this project and made it possible!
Saturday, 28.09.2024
After locomotive 52.8079 has already retrieved the train from the siding at Profen early in the morning, the event begins punctually at 8:40 a.m. with the departure from Leipzig-Knauthain. There are numerous photo stops along the route before the train proceeds to Zeitz freight yard. A quick change of direction takes place there, followed by the return journey to Knauthain. The second leg begins at 11:35 a.m., with the locomotive running smokebox-first towards the south. We pass Zeitz and continue to Gera, where the steam locomotive is replenished at the depot. At 3:30 p.m., the journey continues onto the Saalfeld line, with the tour concluding in Könitz in the evening.
Sunday, 29.09.2024
Sunday begins with brilliant sunshine and immediately offers a highlight for photographers and videographers alike. For minutes on end, the sound of locomotive 52.8079—hauling a heavy coal train that catches the wind against its empty wagons—can be heard as it climbs the grade out of Saalfeld; it is a truly impressive experience! A huge thank you to the locomotive crew for allowing us to witness such a spectacle in 2024. The remainder of the journey to the summit demands the utmost from both the locomotive and the crew. After several photo stops, the train continues to Gera, where the locomotive is restocked, a minor repair is carried out, and the engine is turned around. In the afternoon, it is perfectly positioned in the light to make another run—smokebox-first—on the Profen–Haynsburg shuttle service. The day concludes with the stabling of the wagons in Profen.
