Interview with German Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder
Three-stage plan for the modernisation of Deutsche Bahn
Patrick Schnieder, German Federal Minister of Transport
Structural changes, investments and immediate programmes are at the heart of the “Agenda for satisfied Railway Customers”, which was presented by Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) last September in order to achieve a “fundamental new start” for Deutsche Bahn. At Deutsche Bahn AG, Evelyn Palla will be responsible for the implementation of the programme in her role as CEO. Schnieder explained to InnoTrans Report what tools and measures the Ministry of Transport intends to use for supporting and ensuring its successful implementation.
InnoTrans Report:
What tangible measures does your ministry plan and when will the first noticeable improvements be realised?
Patrick Schnieder: The Federal Ministry of Transport is pursuing a three-stage approach to achieve a comprehensive reform of Deutsche Bahn which consists of structural reforms; programmes which should be implemented immediately and regulatory measures. The first of these includes, for example, the dismantling of duplicate structures or the further unbundling of DB InfraGO AG within the group. In the short term, immediate programmes are being implemented to increase safety and cleanliness at stations; provide better customer information and improve comfort on long distance trains. In addition, the federal government will provide more than 100 billion euros by 2029 for the restoration, digitalisation and expansion of the rail network. These immediate measures and the commencement of renovation of important routes are expected to deliver the first tangible improvements from 2026.
How will politicians ensure that the punctuality targets do not just remain declarations of intent?
Patrick Schnieder: By setting clear targets in the federal government’s ownership mandate. For example, the bonuses of Executive Board members will be linked to the achievement of these targets. These processes are supported by the ‘Reliable Railway’ task force and a strengthened sector advisory board.
„Our railways must be punctual, safe and clean. The group must become faster, leaner and more efficient. We are focusing on customer orientation. The purpose of Deutsche Bahn is to serve people!“
Will binding targets or performance reviews be introduced?
Patrick Schnieder: Yes, the aforementioned linking of bonus payments to the fulfilment of punctuality targets is just one example. In future, payments will only be made if these targets are met. The restructuring of infrastructure financing via the future LV InfraGO (Performance and Financing Agreement InfrGO) is another example of how we are strengthening effective control by the federal government.
Where does Germany currently stand when it comes to implementing modernisation projects - and what are the biggest obstacles?
Patrick Schnieder: Let’s be honest about the current situation. The biggest obstacles are the dilapidated and overloaded network; lengthy construction work; staff shortages and complex approval procedures. But we are tackling all of this with determination. Renovation of the f irst lines, such as the Riedbahn between Frankfurt and Mannheim has started and other projects such as Hamburg-Berlin are currently being realised. We plan to invest more than 100 billion euros in the railways by 2029. This includes around 10 billion euros alone for the digitalisation of the network, for example through digital interlockings and the European Train Control System (ETCS). In addition, we have just launched a law which is aimed at considerably simplifying planning and approval processes.
How is the German Government ensuring that these projects are part of a long-term overall strategy?
Patrick Schnieder: With the “Agenda for Satisfied Railway Customers” we have laid the foundation for precisely this. Now we need to take a 360-degree view and get everyone involved on board. The rail system can be put on a path to long-term success in the interest of its customers if we all work together.
Minister Schnieder, thank you very much for your comments.