ÖBB presents record figures: public transport is booming!

ÖBB presents record figures: public transport is booming!

On March 10, 2025, Roman Hebenstreit, the chairman of the vida union, was pleased with the ÖBB's impressive passenger numbers. In 2024, federal railways transported more than 500 million passengers, which is a new record. “The development shows that investments in the expansion of public transport are worthwhile and that more and more people are choosing trains and buses if the offer is right,” explains Hebenstreit and at the same time thanks the employees who ensure smooth operations every day. Despite this success, Hebenstreit acknowledges that there are challenges in the system, including vehicle shortages and construction that could disrupt operations. Hebenstreit also calls for an upgrade of apprentice training within the ÖBB in order to cover the need for skilled workers in the long term, especially with a view to the upcoming operation of the Koralmbahn in December 2025.

In contrast to the positive developments at ÖBB, a group of activists from ROBIN WOOD and Sand im Gear Berlin are campaigning for a fairer transport policy. With a climbing campaign at Berlin Central Station and a 75 square meter banner, they are demanding: "Change Mobility Fairly. Pick up everyone, expand public transport!" The activists criticize the rising ticket prices, which are putting many people in financial distress. In their opinion, reduced offers and rising operating costs mean that low-income people in particular are excluded from local public transport. An affordable Germany ticket and a fundamental financing decision are therefore essential to ensure mobility for everyone, says Annika Fuchs from ROBIN WOOD. They also emphasize the need to create good working conditions for employees in the transport sector, as the expansion of a reliable public transport service is not possible without sufficient staff.

These contrasts between the positive balance sheet of the ÖBB and the protests for more social justice in transport mark a central theme in current transport policy. While the ÖBB is recording successes, there is still pressure on politicians not to neglect the social and ecological dimensions of mobility. A sustainable transport policy requires both the expansion of services and the creation of fair conditions for everyone involved, which is crucial in view of the imminent elections. The problems in the transport sector are complex and it is time to find solutions that take into account both the environment and the social needs of citizens.

The developments are not only crucial for those affected, but also reflect the need for politics and society to work together on a fair and sustainable transport policy in order to guarantee access to mobility for everyone.

Reports on the successes of ÖBB OTS, while detailing ROBIN WOOD's protest actions robinwood.de be described.