Pro Bahn calls for a long-term solution for the Deutschlandticket
In order to secure the Deutschlandticket in the long term, the federal and state governments should start negotiations immediately, according to the passenger association Pro Bahn. The association called on those involved to think not only about their own finances, but also about the common good. "If things get tight, a few road construction projects can also be canceled," said Pro Bahn.
The federal and state governments recently agreed that the bus and rail ticket should also be offered in 2024. It will continue to cost 49 euros until the end of April, after which the financing is unclear.
The passenger association criticized the public discussions surrounding the financing of the ticket. This has greatly unsettled many passengers, said Malte Diehl, the regional chairman for Lower Saxony and Bremen. People cannot be expected to permanently change their mobility behavior if the necessary offer is constantly being called into question.
"Only the threat of massive embarrassment, which would have resulted in the failure of the most important tariff improvement in public transport for decades, ensured that at least a temporary solution was found in the end," said Diehl with regard to the outcome of the federal-state meeting.
Despite the uncertainty, the Deutschlandticket is a huge success and makes using public transport much easier and cheaper. "Now that the long-term financing will hopefully soon be finally clarified, massive investments must finally be made in expanding the service."
According to the association, Lower Saxony spends the least money per inhabitant on rail transport compared to other federal states. The federal government must provide more financial support to the states for the financing of local rail passenger transport. There is also an urgent need for more train drivers and bus drivers.
- Amidst discussions about the long-term financing of the Deutschlandticket, Pro Bahn suggests that some traffic construction projects could be postponed or canceled to ensure sufficient funds, considering the common good.
- The federal government's financial support is crucial for improving rail transport services in federal states, such as Lower Saxony, which currently spends less per inhabitant compared to other states.
- The success of the Deutschlandticket on railroads and buses shows the need for investments in increasing service capacity, including hiring more train and bus drivers, to accommodate the growing demand for public transportation.
Source: www.dpa.com
