A Glimpse of the Future for Blatten: New Cable Car Takes Shape
06.11.2026
Following the devastating landslide and glacier collapse in Blatten, a temporary cable car is being built between Wiler and Weissenried—an important symbol of hope and reconstruction. Timbatec is supporting its long-standing partner, Amacker Holzbau in Turtmann, with the engineering and construction planning for the two station buildings, which are now taking shape.
A new connection opens up new possibilities
© Image: Amacker Holzbau AG, Turtmann
With the construction of the two station buildings, the new cable car connection in the Lötschental is visibly taking shape. Against an ambitious timeline, a key piece of infrastructure is being built that ensures far more than just accessibility. Precise construction planning, structural engineering, and close collaboration with all project stakeholders are making this rapid implementation possible. At the same time, the project symbolizes a new beginning, optimism, and fresh prospects for Blatten.
Two station buildings for a new connection
With the completion of the valley station in Wiler, the construction of the temporary cable car has reached another important milestone. The mountain station in Weissenried had already been built. Both buildings are part of a new connection that is intended to make a significant contribution to improving access to the affected area following the natural disaster in May 2025.
Timbatec has been awarded the contract for Amacker Holzbau AG from Turtmann in the construction of the two station buildings. Our long-standing partnership forms the foundation for the joint implementation of this extraordinary construction project. With our expertise in shop drawing preparation and structural engineering, we support the precise design of the timber structures, thereby creating the essential conditions for efficient fabrication and assembly. Especially for a project with a tight schedule, well-thought-out details, coordinated interfaces, and careful planning are crucial factors for success.
© Photos: Amacker Holzbau AG, Turtmann
cadwork 3D model of the Wiler–Weissenried valley station
A connection that means so much more
The temporary cable car between Wiler and Weissenried will include two stations and three towers. The system is scheduled to begin operations in mid-December 2026, and the investment cost is approximately 9.3 million Swiss francs. In light of the extraordinary circumstances, the Canton of Valais invoked the general police clause to expedite the permitting process and enable the construction of this urgently needed infrastructure within an extremely ambitious timeline. The connection, initially planned for three years, is intended primarily to ensure basic services and accessibility during the winter months.
Yet its significance extends far beyond its mere transport function. Following the landslide and glacier collapse that severely affected Blatten and parts of the Lötschental valley, the new connection also symbolizes hope, solidarity, and a step back toward normalcy. Where nature destroyed homes and infrastructure in a matter of moments, new prospects are emerging. The two station buildings are visible signs that reconstruction is moving forward. They not only connect two towns but also symbolize the shared determination to actively shape the future of the Lötschental Valley.
From concept to completion in record time | Timber construction makes it possible
Images / Visualizations © Bartholet Ropeways AG, Flums
For Timbatec, it is a special privilege to work alongside Amacker Holzbau AG to contribute to this important infrastructure project and, in doing so, to the region’s reconstruction.