The German Transport Minister, Patrick Schnieder of the CDU, has returned to full duties following a reported circulatory collapse during a cabinet meeting in late September. Schnieder attributes the incident to a combination of an overlooked cold and inadequate hydration, acknowledging a need for personal recovery following a week of doctor-ordered rest.
While his return signifies a resumption of governmental operations, Schnieder’s immediate focus is the ongoing crisis plaguing Deutsche Bahn, the national rail operator. He characterized the current punctuality rates as “absolutely unsatisfactory” a stark assessment reflecting widespread public frustration and damaging the government’s image.
Schnieder’s proposed solution outlines a massive infrastructure overhaul scheduled to continue until 2036: the modernization of 42 high-performance rail corridors. This ambitious project, framed as essential to improving service, has already drawn criticism from opposition parties who question its feasibility and potential to deliver tangible results in the short term. Critics point to the inherent complexities of modernizing aging infrastructure and the potential for further disruptions during the construction phase, potentially worsening the very punctuality issues Schnieder seeks to address.
The Minister cautiously avoided committing to specific punctuality targets for 2026, deeming any such declaration “unserious” at this juncture. While expressing hope for noticeable improvement by then, Schnieder’s publicly stated goals – a minimum of 70% punctuality by 2029, escalating to 80% mid-term and ultimately 90% in the long-term – are viewed by some as calculated targets intended to manage expectations rather than reflective of a truly confident recovery plan.
The lack of a concrete 2026 target has fueled accusations of political maneuvering, with political analysts suggesting it allows the government to deflect blame if immediate improvements fail to materialize. The pressure remains high for Schnieder to deliver and the success of the German railway system will be intrinsically linked to his political standing and the credibility of the current administration.