Government seeks to minimize border congestion through tightened control measures
In a bid to address growing concerns, the German federal government is actively exploring potential solutions to minimize traffic disruptions on the A12 motorway, particularly at the German-Polish border. The federal police are examining structural adaptations on the A12 with all relevant parties, including the possibility of creating a third lane for controls in the border area, as suggested by Brandenburg's Interior Minister René Wilke.
Since October 2023, Germany has been conducting random border checks with Poland to curb irregular migration. In response, Poland is scheduled to introduce temporary border controls with Germany on Monday, May 2023. This move is expected to cause traffic jams, as noted in reports indicating that traffic obstructions are imminent.
To alleviate the anticipated congestion, several potential considerations have been proposed. These include implementing advanced traffic management systems, identifying and promoting alternative routes, collaborating between German and Polish authorities for joint border controls, conducting public awareness campaigns, and making long-term investments in infrastructure.
The Federal Government in Germany aims to limit traffic obstructions, although specific measures for the A12 have not been detailed in available reports. Brandenburg's Minister President Dietmar Woidke has asked the federal government and the Marshal of the Polish Voivodeship of Lubusz, Marcin Jablonski, for solutions to relieve traffic. Woidke, a former Poland coordinator, believes a signal from the federal government is overdue for joint border controls by German and Polish police forces.
As of now, no detailed proposals specifically targeting the A12 have been announced. However, ongoing discussions and potential future collaborations might lead to more tailored solutions. The federal police are considering control locations that take into account deployment tactics and traffic, aiming to ease the traffic situation at the German-Polish border.
The Ministry of the Interior is also examining solutions to avoid congestion on the A12 motorway in Brandenburg. Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt intensified these controls in May. Brandenburg's Chambers of Industry and Commerce have warned of major congestion due to Poland's border controls, underscoring the need for effective solutions.
In light of these developments, it is hoped that collaborative efforts between German and Polish authorities will lead to integrated solutions that ensure smooth cross-border passenger and goods traffic, while maintaining border security.
Economic and social policy discussions are now at the forefront within the German federal government, considering solutions to minimize traffic disruptions on the A12 motorway, particularly at the German-Polish border. Such policy-and-legislation measures may include implementing advanced traffic management systems, promoting alternative routes, and collaborating between German and Polish authorities for joint border controls – matters recently highlighted in general news reports.
