Naumburg’s ‘Wilde Zicke’ tram keeps rolling despite missing funds and contract

A beloved tram defies financial limbo, running on fumes and goodwill. Will the district step up before it’s too late?

, and Administrator

2025 November 19 . 1:21 PM

1 min read

In this image, I can see a tramway on the tramway track. There are street lights, current poles, an... — In this image, I can see a tramway on the tramway track. There are street lights, current poles, an iron gate and a platform. In the background, there are buildings, trees and the sky.

Naumburg’s ‘Wilde Zicke’ tram keeps rolling despite missing funds and contract

The historic 'Wilde Zicke' tram in Naumburg is still operating without a valid contract or financial backing. Despite approval for subsidies last December, the Burgenland district has yet to release any funds. Meanwhile, the tram continues its daily 2.8-kilometre route between the main train station and Salztor.

In December, the Burgenland district council agreed to provide annual subsidies of around €120,000 for 2025, with higher amounts planned from 2026. However, the promised money has not reached Naumburg Straßenbahn, the tram’s operator. The company urgently needs these funds to hire staff and maintain operations.

The 'Wilde Zicke' tram continues to operate despite the lack of funding and a formal contract. The Burgenland district must finalise the concession and release subsidies before the operator can secure its long-term future. Until then, the service relies on temporary support and volunteer efforts to stay on track.