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Hanover’s Heated Waiting Train Shelters Stranded Passengers in Snow Chaos

A cozy refuge on frozen tracks: How Germany’s Wartetraumzug is turning delays into unexpected comfort. Stranded passengers share their stories.

There are railway tracks. Near to that near to that there is grass. There are light poles. In the...
There are railway tracks. Near to that near to that there is grass. There are light poles. In the back there are trains. Also there is a shed. There are trees and sky with clouds in the background.

Waiting train in Hannover protects travelers from cold - Hanover’s Heated Waiting Train Shelters Stranded Passengers in Snow Chaos

Hanover Central Station has deployed a special waiting train to assist passengers affected by heavy snow. The heated carriages offer warmth, Wi-Fi, and refreshments as services remain disrupted. Similar trains have been used in other German cities during recent winter chaos.

The concept of a stationary emergency train—called a Wartetraumzug—was first trialed in Berlin during late November 2023. Around 200 people spent the night in one of these trains when snow paralyzed transport. Now, Hanover has implemented this idea, providing stranded travelers with a comfortable waiting area.

Deutsche Bahn staff moved through the carriages, distributing meals and drinks. Passengers like Ingo Allerkamp appreciated the amenities, including working power sockets and reliable Wi-Fi. Some even found humor in their unexpected overnight stay.

The waiting train remains open throughout the night, although officials have not confirmed how many people have utilized it. Other cities, including Hamburg, Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe, and Magdeburg, have also deployed similar trains to assist travelers during the snowfall.

The waiting train in Hanover continues to operate as long as delays persist. It ensures stranded passengers have access to essential comforts while they wait for services to resume. Deutsche Bahn has not yet announced when normal schedules will resume.

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