Deutsche Bahn Plans Billion-Euro Investments for Greater Cleanliness and Security on Trains

Focal Points in Dortmund and Bavaria

A focal point of the investments lies on heavily frequented hubs. In Dortmund and at other major stations in Bavaria, additional cleaning teams and more security personnel are to be stationed. An expansion of capacities is also planned in other regions, as the report indicates.

Alongside personnel measures, a technical retrofit is also planned. According to the company, this includes improved video surveillance, new emergency-call systems, and modernized lighting in the carriages. This is intended to noticeably increase passengers' sense of security.

Technical Retrofit of the Carriages

In the area of cleanliness, Deutsche Bahn intends, among other things, to shorten cleaning intervals and to introduce new standards for the daily care of the trains. There had been repeated criticism that, particularly on longer routes, the toilets and the interior of the trains were in poor condition.

The investments are part of a larger programme with which the company aims to boost its punctuality and reliability. This also includes modernization work on tracks and stations as well as better passenger information in the event of delays.

Part of a Comprehensive Quality Programme

The company has been under pressure for months because customers and politicians had repeatedly pointed out shortcomings in service and security. With the new programme, the Bahn now intends to take countermeasures and regain lost trust.

When asked, the company initially did not wish to provide further details about the exact amount of the planned funds and the implementation timetable. An assessment by independent bodies or by federal policymakers is also still pending.

The measure is being watched closely within the industry, as Deutsche Bahn operates a central component of public transport in Germany with its long-distance trains. If the announced improvements are actually implemented, this could also raise expectations of other providers.