Getting ready for another round of disruptions? That's right, the GDL union has called for another strike, paralyzing Germany's rail services once again. Here's what you need to know:
When's the Strike?
The strike begins on December 7 at 10 PM, and it's set to last until 10 PM on December 8. But be prepared for cancellations in the hours leading up to the strike as well. In freight transport, the industrial action will commence from 6 PM on December 7.
Which Services are Affected?
Employees from Deutsche Bahn (DB), S-Bahn operations in Berlin and Hamburg, as well as Transdev, AKN, and City-Bahn Chemnitz are part of the strike. This means you can expect significant disruptions in long-distance, regional, and freight transport throughout Germany.
What to Expect in Different Regions?
Historically, many employees in the eastern German states and southwest have been organized with the GDL. So, in many places, regional services might not operate at all. For long-distance services, DB aims to maintain around 20% of services, but in Bavaria, this might not be possible due to the aftermath of heavy snowfall.
How to Check Your Train Status?
You can stay updated on your train's status via the Bahn app or the Bahn website. DB plans to make the emergency timetable available there from Thursday afternoon. You can also call the strike hotline at 08000/99 66 33 for individual information.
What About Your Ticket?
Passengers with journeys planned for December 7 or 8 can use their tickets at a later date. Your ticket is still valid for the journey to the original destination, even if the route changes. You can also cancel your seat reservations free of charge. Additionally, you can bring forward your journey and travel on December 6 as part of a goodwill gesture. If your booked train is cancelled, you're eligible for a full ticket refund.
Are Other Rail Companies Affected?
Apart from the mentioned companies, all other rail companies can theoretically offer their services, given that most of their workers are not directly affiliated with the GDL. However, providers like FlixTrain have reported a surge in ticket demand for Thursday.
Why is the GDL on Strike?
The GDL's primary demands include a reduction in weekly working hours for shift workers from 38 to 35 hours and an increase of 555 euros per month, along with an inflation compensation bonus. DB, on the other hand, has proposed a 11% wage hike over 32 months with an inflation compensation bonus, but this offer was not enough to prevent strikes.
Will There Be More Strikes Before or After Christmas?
The GDL has confirmed that this week's industrial action will be the last strike until January 7, 2024. However, the situation after that remains unclear. The union will announce the results of a member ballot on December 19. If more than 75% of participants vote in favor of indefinite strike action, the union may call for longer industrial actions in the future.
By understanding these details, you can better plan your travels during the strike, ensuring a smoother journey despite the disruptions. As always, safety and patience should be your top priorities.
