Rail Disruption Averted - No Major Impact on Train Services in MV
The rail disruption, which was averted thanks to a new collective agreement between Deutsche Bahn and the Railway and Transport Union (EVG), had initially threatened to severely impact rail traffic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. But, lucky for commuters and freight companies, the fight over wages didn't result in a strike.
As it stands, only two regular train lines in the state are operating: Wismar-Tessin and Bad Doberan-Müritz. Deutsche Bahn announced this morning that an emergency timetable is in effect, but service is far from normal. Some individual trains are running on the RE1 line between Hamburg and Schwerin, as well as on RE3 line between Stralsund/Züssow and Berlin-Gesundbrunnen.
Buses have been deployed on various routes to help fill the gap left by the sparse train service. Commuters traveling between Hamburg and Schwerin, or Stralsund/Greifswald and Angermünde, can take advantage of bus services. Buses are also available between Rostock/Stralsund and Neustrelitz, connecting with individual trains on the RE5 line. Replacement buses are operating on the S2 line between Rostock and Güstrow as well.
The rail disruption had substantial implications for freight transport as well, with the train drivers at logistics company DB Cargo on strike. The rail union's strike began at 6 p.m. for freight services, and at 10 p.m. for passenger services on Thursday evening, but thankfully, did not last long.
Additional Details
Despite the potential for widespread disruption, the ADAC encouraged commuters to work from home due to wintry road conditions. The train disruption had ramifications beyond just Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, as freight traffic on the German railway's lines in Ticino was heavily affected. The strike also led to a significant increase in traffic congestion as trucks were diverted to alternative transport methods.
Related Reads
Insight
If the German rail strike had gone through, passenger and freight services would have been severely impacted in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and other regions. Thankfully, an agreement was reached to avoid a strike, ensuring that services would not be disrupted in the immediate future. The agreement allowed Deutsche Bahn to focus on expanding its rail network and improving punctuality without worrying about strikes.
The next possible warning strike from the union could occur in March 2026, but the negotiations and implementation of the new agreement should provide stability until then. For now, commuters and freight companies can travel with peace of mind knowing that train services are continuing as usual.
