Longest rail strike of history: chaos for travelers in Germany!

Longest rail strike of history: chaos for travelers in Germany!

On May 10, 2015, several significant events overshadowed both the national and the international news situation. The long railway strike, which was proclaimed by the German locomotive driver (GDL) union (GDL), stands out particularly concise. This strike is considered the longest in the history of Deutsche Bahn and extends over six days until 9 a.m. until Sunday morning. According to Localplus , the GDL was dissatisfied with the negotiations to represent train drivers and rankers. This decision resulted in a massive workplace that significantly influenced both the long-distance and regional transport.

The GDL boss Claus Weselsky expressed that rail customers react with resentment to the strike, but rejected the criticism of the actions. "These are right -wing rights of our members," said Weselsky, who also threatened with other strikes if the railway management should not react to the demands. The pressure from politics was also significant: Chancellor Angela Merkel called for arbitration, but the GDL rejected. Meanwhile, in freight transport, it was strike on Monday, which further tightened the situation.

traffic impairments and passenger reactions

As the Deutsche Bahn informed, some long -distance trains should continue despite the strike. Every third of these trains could continue to be used, while in regional traffic only an output of 15 to 60 percent of the regular offer was expected. Most failures were expected in East Germany, which significantly restricted the mobility of numerous travelers.

A warning strike on a Friday had already taken place before this long strike, which had a significant impact on the operating process of all railway companies, including S-Bahn companies in Berlin and Hamburg. Passengers were asked to avoid or move non -necessary trips. An emergency schedule was created for long -distance transport to better control the remaining connections.

Other important events in May 2015

In addition to the railway strike, May 2015 was characterized by further events. A remarkable auction took place in world art: a painting by Pablo Picasso was sold for $ 179.4 million and thus became the most expensive painting in the world. FC Bayern Munich also secured the title as a German football champion, while VfL Wolfsburg won the DFB Cup with a 3-1 win against Borussia Dortmund. The Eurovision Song Contest crowned Mans Zelmerlöw as the winner, with Germany ending up in the last place with "Zero Points".

In Olpe and the surrounding area, the shooting festival began, and other local events such as the election of the mayor candidates in Drolshagen, Finnentrop, Olpe and Wenden were at the top of the agenda. In addition, the sporting success was not missing: Sarah Langemann from SC Olpe set up a new circular record over 400 meters of hurdles.

Overall, May 2015 shows itself as a month full of intensive events and turns in which the railway strike stands out. The effects on mobility and the reaction to the public are still a long topic in the debates and discussions followed. During this time, people have to adapt to creative solutions and a little patience, while the negotiations between GDL and Deutsche Bahn continue.