Germany’s train upgrades face years of delays beyond 2031 deadline

Ailing train networks and missed deadlines spark frustration. Can an industry dialogue salvage Germany’s crumbling rail modernization?

, and Administrator

2025 November 10 . 1:17 PM

1 min read

In this image there are railway tracks in the center. On the left side there are trees and poles.... — In this image there are railway tracks in the center. On the left side there are trees and poles. On the right side there are trees, poles, there is a fence and there are buildings and there is a vehicle. In the front there is a board which is visible and on the ground there are stones.

Germany’s train upgrades face years of delays beyond 2031 deadline

Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder has warned that the modernization of 40 key railway routes may not be completed by the end of 2031. The project, aimed at improving punctuality and transparency, is facing potential delays. Currently, only 64 percent of long-distance trains are arriving on time, as seen in the first half of 2025. Schnieder acknowledged that the renovation could extend beyond 2035, but he does not view this as a significant concern. He has criticized Bahn CEO Richard Lutz for suggesting that customers understand the delays. To address the timeline, Schnieder has proposed an industry dialogue between the Bahn and the construction industry. He believes that each investment in the railway network will enhance its reliability. Schnieder expects further delays in the general renovation and does not anticipate a swift improvement in punctuality during this period. The modernization of 40 important railway routes may not be completed by the end of 2031, with potential delays extending beyond 2035. Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder has called for an industry dialogue to discuss the renovation timeline and has emphasized that each investment will improve the railway network's reliability.