After the bustle: Train services return to normal schedule
Following the work stoppage by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), Deutsche Bahn plans to resume operation based on the routine timetable from this coming Friday. This applies to both long-distance and local services beginning Friday morning, as confirmed by a spokesperson. With an expected influx of travelers even after the GDL strike, the spokesperson advises booking a seat on long-distance trips.
To maintain the regular service on Friday, the emergency timetable had to remain in force for long-distance and parts of regional transportation even after the GDL warning strike concluded at 6 pm on Thursday. This preparatory move will ensure a smooth start on Friday morning.
The GDL initiated a work stoppage, including train drivers, attendants, workshop personnel, and dispatchers, beginning Wednesday evening at 10 pm and extending until Thursday, 6 pm. Consequently, numerous S-Bahn and regional services in Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland were canceled, while others operated every two hours. Additionally, other railway companies, such as Mittelrheinbahn, were influenced by these strikes.
The GDL's main demands include a 555-euro monthly increase for twelve-month contracts, an inflation compensation bonus, and a reduction in working hours for shift workers from 38 to 35 hours per week with full pay. Deutsche Bahn proposed an eleven-percent pay increase for a 32-month contract, but declined to address the working hours issue in their offer.
Even with the return to regular train operation, consumers may still encounter transportation issues due to the high number of travelers following the strike, and the impact on railroad companies such as Mittelrheinbahn.
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The recent work stoppage by the GDL has had significant consequences for Deutsche Bahn and other rail companies in Germany. Key points include:
- Strike Impact:
- Approximately 80% of rail traffic in Germany was halted during the strike, costing commuters an estimated billion euros in additional transportation expenses[1]. As an alternative, many opted for taxi and rideshare services, leading to increased demand and higher prices.
- Union Demands:
- GDL's main concerns involve salary increases and reduced working hours for shift workers. Critics argue that Deutsche Bahn does not employ enough engineers for a 40-hour workweek, but GDL contends that hiring more personnel would resolve this issue[1].
- Current Wage Negotiations:
- As of January 2025, wage negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and the German Railway and Transport Union (EVG) are underway. Both parties aim to reach an agreement prior to the federal election on February 23, 2025, to avoid political uncertainties[3]. Deutsche Bahn has proposed an up to 6.6% wage increase, while the EVG requests a 7.6% pay raise[3].
- Potential Future Disruptions:
- If no resolution is attained by March 31, 2025, the threat of future strikes intensifies significantly, potentially disrupting regional, long-distance, and freight transportation across Germany[3]. The existing collective agreement includes a peace obligation, meaning industrial action is restricted until March 31, 2025[3].
- Mitigation Efforts:
- Deutsche Bahn is advocating for a 37-month contract term to provide stability during their ongoing restructuring. However, the EVG is cautious about this lengthy duration, preferring shorter agreements that enable earlier renegotiations based on economic developments[3]. In response, Deutsche Bahn has suggested differential contracts to accommodate both parties' needs.
