Deutsche Bahn at the low point: Punctuality remains a drama!

Deutsche Bahn at the low point: Punctuality remains a drama!

Deutsche Bahn is under pressure: Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) sharply criticized the unsatisfactory punctuality in long -distance transport. The minister was concerned about the current punctuality rate of only 60 to 65 percent and described it as "out of the question". A goal of over 80 or even 90 percent is essential to meet the expectations of passengers, reports ZDF .

The situation looks dark: in September the punctuality in the individual regions only reached disappointing values. Only 50 to 60 percent of long -distance trains were on time, and in the west the ICES and ICs were only 55 percent below. RP online reports that the Federal Government is increasingly frustrated about this development, while the punctuality in local transport is stable over 90 percent.

renovation requirement and structural problems

The dilapidated infrastructure of the railway contributes not inconsiderably to the delays. Construction sites and urgent renovations of long -distance traffic routes that could drag on by 2035 contribute to a tense situation. Schnieder emphasizes that patience is required here. From 2024 the renovation of the heavily loaded corridors is to begin, but this does not promise any improvement in the company in the next few years.

according to Deutsche Bahn The operational punctuality in long-distance transport is 62 percent, which reflects the relentless reality. Even if a slightly better rate of 64.3 percent was recorded in April 2024, the decline is worrying.

changes at the top?

Schnieder also plans significant changes at the top of the Deutsche Bahn. It is expected that the detachment of rail boss Richard Lutz could take place in late summer, which is due to the desolate punctuality. This decision should be made in the next two months, and the criticism of the leadership will be louder.

The planned future of the railway also includes the hiring of more employees. Instead of the 21,000 originally sought, 26,000 new employees are to be hired by the end of the year. Schnieder and the railway line hope that this reinforcement will help to improve the punctuality figures.

outlook on Christmas travel traffic

For the travelers in the coming Christmas party, the situation also looks problematic. It is expected that passengers in travel will have to expect delays and even train failures, which underlines the difficulties this year.

The location of the Deutsche Bahn is tense and requires comprehensive measures. For the rail travelers, it remains to be hoped that the announced investments and the changes in personnel will soon have an effect and the punctuality will increase again.