The Swiss traffic and transport project Cargo sous terrain (CST) has, according to its own statements, demonstrated that the proposed underground logistics system with urban micro-distribution in the city is technically and physically feasible. As the Basel-based corporate consortium announced on September 8, this was confirmed by an independent review of the project review completed in spring 2025. This review had been requested by the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (UVEK) from CST.
The aim had been to address the questions and concerns raised in the sector plan hearing in an evidence-based manner and to ensure the project's feasibility. Based on this, a decision by the
competent authorities at the federal and cantonal level now awaits.
No prerequisites for implementation at present
According to the announcement, the management board and the supervisory board of CST recognized in the spring that the current legal framework cannot reliably secure private financing of the project's construction phase. For CST to work, a stable partnership with the federal government, cantons and municipalities is needed, with the aim that all transport modes can contribute their part. This embedding into the overall logistics system must be politically anchored and implemented jointly in order to absorb freight traffic growth and to realize the benefits of CST. Since these prerequisites are currently lacking, implementation
at the present time is not economically justifiable, according to CST.
The company is therefore adjusting its focus and its organization to the circumstances. It will use the knowledge developed to offer solutions for city logistics in Switzerland and internationally that are in immediate demand. In Switzerland, the goal remains to work in dialogue with policymakers to create suitable framework conditions for realization. CST could thus lay the groundwork for further privately financed infrastructure projects. An indispensable step in this situation is a restructuring of CST AG with an appropriate composition of the team. This also includes cost reductions and job cuts. As more than ten positions are expected to
be affected, CST will launch the legally required consultation process.
“It will take time until CST is politically anchored in transportation policy and can mobilize long-term investments. Currently we do not have the means to continue the organization with the previous focus, and therefore we are adjusting to the realities. This way the contributed capital can be used optimally in the shareholders' interests and the know-how gained can be put to use.”
CEO Christian Späth adds:
“With the necessary restructuring, Cargo sous terrain AG is laying the groundwork for its sustainable future. We deeply regret that job cuts must accompany this. We are committed to finding good solutions for our
