SPD slams Deutsche Bahn over rail crossing closures amid construction chaos
Opposition Leader Urges Mayor to Take Immediate Action Against Rail Closures
Ernst Lauterjung, leader of the SPD parliamentary group, has called on Lord Mayor Daniel Flemm to act without delay. "We strongly advise the Lord Mayor to lodge vigorous protests with Deutsche Bahn—including through federal and state representatives," Lauterjung declared. The closure, he argued, would disrupt an entire district and could have been avoided.
Crossings Could Remain Open
The SPD maintains that the rail crossings could, in principle, stay passable despite ongoing construction. "Key rail crossings can remain accessible even during major works—though it does require greater organizational effort," Lauterjung stated.
The Social Democrats pointed to past major renovations where essential crossings remained in use, even for agricultural vehicles. While the barrier systems are currently out of service, they suggested deploying safety personnel to manually secure the crossings—such as by stretching red warning tape across when construction trains or vehicles approach. This method, they noted, is already used when barriers temporarily malfunction.
Criticism of Deutsche Bahn's Priorities
The SPD suspects Deutsche Bahn is simply trying to avoid the extra organizational work. The faction cites the fact that emergency vehicles and waste collection trucks can still pass as evidence. "Everything suggests that Deutsche Bahn wanted to spare itself the effort," Lauterjung said.
The group also fears the decision was made without sufficient understanding of local conditions in Schnittert, Wilzhaus, Maubes, Kuckesberg, and Keusenhof. They insist the city administration must respond officially without delay, with Lauterjung expressing confidence in securing support from the city council.
Time Running Out
A formal council resolution, however, would come too late, as the next meeting is scheduled after construction begins. Instead, the SPD is pushing for direct negotiations with Deutsche Bahn. "The railway's leadership must realize that what little public goodwill remains is now at stake," Lauterjung warned.
Meanwhile, residents fear longer detours and increased traffic congestion in the neighborhood.
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