Rail traffic in the north disrupted even after the end of the warning strike
Even after the end of the 20-hour warning strike by the GDL union, Deutsche Bahn expects further disruptions to train services on Thursday. DB Regio announced on the X platform (formerly Twitter) that long-distance, regional and S-Bahn services would be severely disrupted until the end of the day. Trains are expected to run according to schedule again on Friday.
The work stoppage did not lead to major chaos at the stations in the north because passengers had enough time to prepare for it. The emergency timetable ensured at least some of the local and long-distance connections.
The German Train Drivers' Union (GDL) is demanding 555 euros more per month for a twelve-month contract and an inflation adjustment bonus. The sticking point is the demand for a reduction in working hours from 38 to 35 hours per week for shift workers with full pay. Deutsche Bahn presented its own offer in the first round of negotiations, which provides for a pay increase of eleven percent over a term of 32 months. There is nothing in the offer regarding working hours.
Despite DB Regio's efforts to normalize train services on Friday, ongoing tariff disputes might cause additional delays. The German Train Drivers' Union's demands for higher wages and reduced working hours could potentially lead to more railroad strikes, affecting traffic flow.
Source: www.dpa.com
