Deep beneath our feet lies a critical hub. It keeps Stockholm’s subway system running smoothly. This is H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n.
H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n is one of Stockholm’s essential train depots. It resides in H\u00f6gdalen’s industrial area. That is a part of S\u00f6derort in Stockholm Municipality. Think of it as a large garage and maintenance facility for the subway.
The depot was built between 1957 and 1958. Erik Vestergren and Cyril Marcus were the architects. It connects to H\u00f6gdalen station via a branch line. The original hall had 12 tracks. A wash hall and graffiti removal area were added in 1999.
But H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n’s story doesn’t end there. Stockholm is growing. The subway needs to expand. H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n is expanding too.
In February 2016, plans were approved to expand H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n. It will connect to the Gr\u00f6na line on the east side. The expansion should finish during 2026. This upgrade doubles the depot’s capacity. It will then accommodate around 50 trains instead of the current 25.
Why is this expansion so important? Marie Fredell is the project manager. She says the depot is the heart of the new subway. Without it, the trains would stand still.
The expansion involves building new storage halls. These will park the trains. There will also be a new wash hall and graffiti cleaning area. A new 2.5-kilometer tunnel will link the depot and H\u00f6kar\u00e4ngen. This tunnel will support trains from the Gr\u00f6na line’s Farsta branch. In the future, the Hags\u00e4tra branch will become part of the Bl\u00e5 line.
Building during full operation presents challenges. The work requires careful planning. Safety is a top priority. This is because construction happens close to tracks and trains.
The new tunnel to H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n is taking shape. It is located south of H\u00f6kar\u00e4ngen station. The project should finish in 2026. There might be effects on subway traffic and the local environment.
Originally, the depot began its service in 1958. It now washes, cleans, repairs and maintains trains. It also provides parking.
H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n is directly linked to the new subway. The new subway lines will open between 2026 and 2034. The total investment is 5.5 billion kronor.
So next time you’re on the subway. Remember H\u00f6gdalsdep\u00e5n. It is the unsung hero. It keeps those trains running. It connects you to the city.