Overview

• Transport Minister Volker Wissing opposes replacing Deutsche Bahn leadership, stating it won't address aging infrastructure problems like broken switches and outdated interlockings.
• Wissing attributes the rail network's decay to prolonged political underfunding rather than managerial neglect, urging fair accountability from policymakers.
• The coalition agreement between Union and SPD calls for reappointing Deutsche Bahn and InfraGo boards to enhance expertise and streamline operations.
• Only 62.5 percent of Deutsche Bahn's long-distance trains were on time last year, highlighting operational challenges linked to network disrepair.
• Plans for large-scale rail renovations costing billions of euros remain stalled due to unresolved financing, with a maintenance backlog exceeding €90 billion.