Brandenburg may ban alcohol on regional trains to curb violence against staff

Unprovoked assaults on rail staff spark debate over alcohol limits. Could Brandenburg's trains go dry to protect workers and passengers alike?

, and Administrator

2026 May 5 . 6:18 PM

1 min read

The image shows a sign on the door of a train that reads "You must wear a face covering on public... — The image shows a sign on the door of a train that reads "You must wear a face covering on public transport unless exempt or you could be denied travel or receive a fine". The sign is in the center of the image and is surrounded by a glass window on the right side.

Brandenburg may ban alcohol on regional trains to curb violence against staff

Brandenburg’s Transport Minister Robert Crumbach is exploring a ban on alcohol in regional rail services. He points to rising security concerns, including unprovoked attacks on conductors. The proposal follows warnings from rail unions about worsening incidents on trains. Unions EVG and GDL have raised alarms over increasing violence against staff. Many attacks appear random, with no clear provocation. Crumbach believes alcohol plays a major role in these disturbances.

Rather than an outright ban, the minister suggests restrictions could target specific times or routes. He has called for a detailed discussion on alcohol consumption and passenger behaviour. The aim is to find practical solutions without imposing blanket rules.

The potential alcohol ban would focus on regional trains in Brandenburg. Crumbach’s proposal comes as unions push for stronger protections for rail workers. A final decision will depend on further debate and evidence of its effectiveness.