The announcement by Bahn executive Evelyn Palla that Deutsche Bahn will keep long-distance travel fares stable for one year, citing the energy crisis, is deemed insufficient by the passenger association Pro Bahn. Detlef Neuß, the association’s honorary chairman, told the “Rheinische Post” (Monday) that rail prices must be lowered-at least for a specific period.
Neuß stressed that the announcement of no price increases is inadequate, especially given the persistent issues of late arrivals and frequent train cancellations. He added, “A price increase is not justifiable in the current situation”. Furthermore, the association pointed out that long-distance tickets currently vary in price depending on the route and demand, meaning there are no fixed rates. Consequently, the extent to which the promise to withhold price hikes will impact ticketing-which is already variable-remains unclear.