The extreme heat in Germany is causing massive problems in regional rail traffic. Operator Metronom called on its passengers not to start any more journeys and to avoid stations. The reason is several heat-related disruptions to the rail infrastructure, the company said. In addition, the air conditioning systems in the trains are reaching their technical limits.
Passengers already on their way should return home or switch to other means of transport, it added. Metronom said it is trying to maintain a basic service. Deutsche Bahn joined the warning and advised against unnecessary trips on long-distance and regional services for the entire weekend.
The restrictions are based on a safety regulation: if the prescribed interior temperature in a vehicle can no longer be maintained, trains may no longer be used to transport passengers. This is also causing operational disruptions, according to Metronom. Passengers should continuously inform themselves about current restrictions before starting their journey and during the trip.
Source: www.zeit.de
