10 Mar 2024 | 10:01 PM UTC
Germany: Train drivers' union to strike nationwide 02:00 March 12-02:00 March 13
German train drivers to strike nationwide March 12-13; widespread national, local, and international rail disruptions likely.
The German Locomotive Drivers' Union (Gewerkschaft Deutscher Lokomotivfuehrer, GDL) plans to go on strike 02:00 March 12-02:00 March 13 over pay and working conditions. National rail operating company Deutsche Bahn (DB) anticipates severe disruptions to long-distance and regional services, as well as to S-Bahn operations for the duration of the work stoppage. International services to neighboring countries will also likely be affected. It remains unclear if the industrial action will only impact passenger rail transport or freight transport, as well.
Unless averted, the strike will likely impact not only domestic rail services within Germany, but cross-border transport into Luxembourg, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Switzerland, as well. Increased demand for alternative transport is likely. Available rail services will almost certainly experience increased congestion. Disruptions to some services may continue for several hours following the end of the work stoppage as carriers reposition rolling stock and work through their backlogs. Protests are possible at transport hubs. Heightened security may accompany any protests that materialize.
Reconfirm all rail travel. Consider alternative modes of transport for time-sensitive travel or critical freights. Avoid any strike-related protests that may occur.
This most recent strike is part of an ongoing campaign by GDL. Previous strikes in mid-November, early December, and early January all resulted in significant rail service disruptions. Union leaders have indicated that any future actions could occur without the 48-hour advance notice that GDL had been providing.
