Germany’s Rail Crisis Deepens as Congestion Nearly Doubles Since 2018
Germany's rail network is facing a critical situation. Congestion has surged, with overloaded sections nearly doubling since 2018. The Alliance for Rail urges the federal government to allocate €130 billion from the 'Infrastructure and Climate Neutrality' fund to address this pressing issue.
In 2018, 749 kilometers of the network were overburdened. By 2021, this figure had jumped to 1,321 kilometers, indicating a severe strain on the system. This congestion is hampering the growth of rail transport, which is in high demand in Germany.
To tackle this, the Alliance for Rail proposes drawing an additional €130 billion from the special fund. This comes on top of the €200 billion already earmarked for rail modernization over the next twelve years. The total estimated cost for modernization is a staggering €320 billion.
The federal government, or a designated federal authority, holds the right to approve the allocation of the €130 billion fund. The Alliance for Rail emphasizes the urgency of this investment to relieve congestion and support the growing demand for rail transport in Germany.
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