Light Rail Inaugurated: New Connection Between Ishøj and Rødovre Nord Opened

On Sunday, the first stage of the Greater Copenhagen Light Rail (Hovedstadens Letbane) was officially inaugurated. The stretch from Ishøj to Rødovre Nord is now open to passengers, marking the beginning of a new chapter for public transport in the capital region.

The light rail is the result of many years of planning and collaboration between the Capital Region of Denmark and 11 municipalities. The new connection aims to make it easier to travel across the region and to strengthen links between the suburban municipalities.

“The light rail has been long awaited. It represents a significant boost for public transportation and connects the municipalities around Copenhagen more effectively,” said Regional Council Chairman Lars Gaardhøj (A), who has followed the project since the idea phase in 2012.

The light rail will, among other things, improve access to Rigshospitalet Glostrup and – from next summer – Herlev Hospital, once the entire route is operational.

Currently, the light rail runs every 10 minutes between Ishøj and Rødovre Nord. When the full 28-kilometre line to Lundtofte opens in the summer of 2026, departures will be as frequent as every 5 minutes during daytime hours.

According to Marianne Frederik (Ø), chair of the Committee for Transport and Regional Development in the Capital Region, frequent departures and good accessibility are key to encouraging more people to choose public transport over cars.

“The light rail offers the freedom and flexibility needed for more people to opt for public transport. I’m also pleased that accessibility for wheelchair users and passengers with prams and bicycles has been considered,” she said.

The opening day was celebrated with activities and music at several stations. At Glostrup Hospital, the Capital Region hosted a festive event featuring a teddy bear hospital, coffee, and the chance to get a close look at emergency services. Many took up the invitation to join as the first light rail trains departed from Glostrup and Ishøj around 11 a.m.

The next stage, which continues toward Lundtofte via Lyngby, is expected to open next summer.