Verdi call
Public transport strike: which cities are affected – and what commuters need to know now
The public transport strike affects numerous cities across Germany
© urbazon/Getty Images
Verdi is calling for a warning strike on public transport next week. But where is the strike actually happening – and do I have a right to compensation? We answer the most important questions.
First Deutsche Bahn, then Lufthansa – and now local public transport (ÖPNV). In the last week of February, commuters will once again have to prepare for an (almost) nationwide warning strike. This time the union has Verdi called on public transport workers to stop working. The main strike day is scheduled to be March 1, 2024, but restrictions and delays are possible throughout the week. We’ll give you an overview of what you need to know about the warning strike.
In which cities is there a strike?
It is not yet clear which transport companies will take part in the strike – and when they will strike and for how long. The union said in its announcement: “In individual federal states there will be strikes on different days during this period – primarily all day and predominantly over several days.” The strikes should therefore take place regionally, staggered from Monday to Saturday. Bavaria is the only federal state not taking part. The following federal states have already announced their dates:
Berlin: The Berlin transport company BVG is on strike from February 29th to March 1st at 2 p.m.
Brandenburg: The Uckermärkische Verkehrsgesellschaft goes on strike on February 28th and the Ostprignitz-Ruppiner local transport company on February 29th. On March 1st, the following companies will stop working: ViP Verkehrsbetriebe Potsdam GmbH, Regionale Verkehrsgesellschaft Dahme-Spreewald, Uckermärkische Verkehrsgesellschaft, Verkehrsgesellschaft Tältow-Fläming, Busverkehr Oder-Spree, Barnimer Busgesellschaft, Cottbusverkehr, Havelbus Verkehrsgesellschaft, regiobus Potsdam Mittelmark, Stadtverkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt the Oder, DB Regio Ost and the Brandenburg an der Havel transport company.
Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein: The Hamburger Hochbahn and the Hamburg-Holstein transport company are on strike from February 29th at 3 a.m. to March 2nd at 3 a.m.
Saarland: On February 26th, Saarbahn Netz GmbH, Neunkircher Verkehrs GmbH, Fahrzeugservice Neunkirchen GmbH, Saarlouis roundabouts and Völklinger Verkehrsbetriebe VVB are on strike.
Expect the list to grow even longer in the coming days. However, there will be no spontaneous operational failures. Verdi promises that relevant strike participation will be announced at least 48 hours before it begins.
Where can I find out if my train is affected?
The exact times and participants of the strike will be announced by the Verdi union as soon as they are determined. But commuters can also find information about the strike and a possible emergency timetable or replacement service if this is set up on the homepages of the individual transport companies.
What rights do I have as a passenger in the event of a cancellation or delay?
If Deutsche Bahn goes on strike, the European Passenger Rights Regulation regulates the passengers’ rights. In this case, you usually have the right to alternative transport and a refund of the fare. However, this regulation does not apply in the event of a strike by trams, buses, etc. Passengers cannot therefore hope for reimbursement in the event of a public transport strike and must find alternative transport themselves.
How do I get to my destination if the bus and train are canceled?
Not all transport companies go on strike at the same time. If the planned train or bus is canceled, it is worth checking alternative connections. Sometimes a competing company can help you achieve your goal. If that doesn’t work, you can switch to a bike, car or sharing offers such as e-scooters or scooters. Another popular way: walking to your destination.
Sources: Consumer advice center, Verdi