Timetable responsibility and assignment The TVS is responsible for producing timetables on the normal-gauge interoperable railway network in Switzerland and on selected additional sections. It does not, however, draw up the timetables itself. This task is assigned to the 13 infrastructure operators in charge, and assists with timetable creation. The planning includes both the annual schedule and modifications undertaken throughout the year through to operational orders.
Upstream planning and development The timetable is produced in stages following a regulatory process that ensures that the needs of modes of transport are compatible with each other. The TVS is involved during the strategic planning stage by the Swiss federal government through to detailed medium-term planning. As part of this process, it comments on the network usage plan and schedules and publishes the train path catalogues for transalpine freight transport.
Handling timetable changes The timetable can be adjusted flexibly to accommodate changes to the needs of railway operators, or if there are restrictions due to engineering works or unforeseen operational disruptions. If alternative plans are required because of the above-mentioned circumstances, the TVS will assist with making any timetable changes. In so doing, it ensures there is no discrimination in the drawing up of the timetable and allocates the capacities.