Bernreiter: Germany ticket will be more expensive than 49 euros
Bavaria's Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter (CSU) does not see the Deutschland-Ticket for local public transport as a huge success - especially as it will be more expensive than the current 49 euros. Nevertheless, Bernreiter wants to stick with it: "It is a gain for the conurbation. And it is a fare revolution," he told Mediengruppe Bayern (Saturday).
"The ticket is far too often talked up and celebrated as a great success," Bernreiter told the media group. When it was introduced, 13 million tickets were expected to be sold, but currently around 11 million. "With 84 million inhabitants, it's not a big hit."
Even if rural areas have little or nothing to gain from the ticket, the CSU politician wants to stick with it. They are currently working on a uniform tariff system throughout Bavaria. "That's why it would be fatal if the ticket were to fail, also because so much effort and energy has been put into it at administrative level. It must continue, but at a realistic price."
Bernreiter announced that it would not remain at 49 euros. "The Deutschlandticket will become more expensive." The conference of transport ministers must find a permanent solution by May 1. "And the resolution of the Minister Presidents explicitly states that a price increase is to be discussed. Otherwise it won't work."
Despite the ticket's perceived failure to meet its sales expectations with only 11 million tickets sold, Bernreiter hints at an increase in the price of the Deutschland-Ticket, stating, "The Deutschlandticket will become more expensive." Additionally, Bernreiter mentions that improvments in railroad infrastructure are necessary, stating, "They are currently working on a uniform tariff system throughout Bavaria."
Source: www.dpa.com
