Evelyn Palla, the chairwoman of Deutsche Bahn AG, admitted that the current railway‑network rehabilitation programme has managed to cut disruptions by only about 50 percent so far. She said that, while the company may have been overly optimistic in the past, it will continue to pursue the general renewal plan and is working to streamline the processes. “We learn from every corridor‑rebuild” she told “Der Spiegel”.
Palla explained that earlier rehabilitation projects-such as those between Frankfurt and Mannheim and the later‑delayed one between Berlin and Hamburg-have taken place on tight timelines. “Many railway renovations simply cannot be postponed” she said, and urged customers to be patient. The problems today are the result of decisions made 10‑15 years ago when investment in the tracks was insufficient. The bank is now investing more, but the system is still sluggish. “It will take roughly a decade for the rail network to be back in good shape” she added.
In the meantime, Deutsche Bahn is focused on improving the passenger experience. Palla noted that, even when an ICE train is delayed, passengers expect clean facilities, functioning toilets, and a full range of on‑board bistro offerings. While 98 percent of toilets already work, the company aims to make the service visibly better for customers.
After a train attendant was violently killed in February, Palla announced further safety measures. Body‑cams have been supplied to all DB Regio staff who requested them, and following a security summit the company has extended the system to all employees who interact with customers. What is still missing are audio recordings from the body‑cams, which would be helpful but are impeded by data‑protection rules. Palla said she hopes for political support in resolving that issue.
Concerning the departure of financial director Karin Dohm, who stepped down after just three months, Palla made it clear that the responsibility lies with the supervisory board. “Ms. Dohm is an experienced manager; all further decisions are in the hands of the board, which I will not preempt” she said. Under her contract, Dohm is entitled to up to two years’ salary as a severance package. When asked whether she would seek to reduce that claim, Palla said it was not her prerogative and that the supervisory board must decide.