Chaos in rail replacement: Fitness program for rail travelers!

Chaos in rail replacement: Fitness program for rail travelers!

Elisenstraße, 80335 München, Deutschland - The railway is often considered a nuisance, but the current rail replacement transport campaign on the Werdenfelsbahn between the Munich Central Station and Starnberg has developed its own dynamics. The SEV, which stands for rail replacement traffic, is now an expression of sport, upgrading and human connection. This unusual turn is the result of construction work that has been underway since Saturday.

The regular train ride from Murnau to Munich usually takes just under an hour. But during the current construction site, the travel time is extended to over two hours. The train sees this as an opportunity not only to transport their passengers, but also to "upgrade" them physically. Passengers who think they are on the train now experience a physical workout while waiting for their buses.

orientation problems and travel adventure

A clear example of the challenge that this SEV brings is already evident when it comes to the exit in Starnberg. Many passengers, including a family of six, are unsure where to go on. Apparently there are no clear signs. Confused and somewhat frustrated, they are faced with the choice: turn right where there are many buses, or on the left, where the actual SEV buses are available. This confusion ensures movement and gets the cardiovascular system going-whether wanted or not.

In particular, the older lady with a rollator who now has to change direction quickly makes an interesting choice. Even if it is dependent on her rollator in the end, the way to the fresh air for many in view of the waiting at the station is a bright spot. For a family on a return trip to the Sauerland, however, the Situation becomes an adventure. You wonder how long you have to wait for your bus and whether you create your connection in Munich, which ultimately leads to a spontaneous organization of a large taxis that takes you directly to the main train station for around 80 euros.

The buses themselves do not stop at the main train station due to construction sites in Munich, but in Elisenstrasse. Once there, the passengers have to switch to the bike path at lightning speed so as not to be caught by the passing cyclists. The flexibility that is required here could actually be seen as a sporting challenge.

information and orientation

Another challenge faces passengers at the main train station who want to continue traveling to the Alps. "Train fails", can be read on the display boards, and the signposts leave something to be desired. Here your own decision is required: The DB navigator is available, but the indication that the bus stop is not at the train station seems confusing for many. To get to Elisenstrasse, passengers have to overcome a variety of obstacles such as zebra crossings and traffic lights.

Deutsche Bahn has expressed that the SEV program must first “import” based on experience from previous closures. On the questions of the Süddeutsche Zeitung about their fitness program, you didn't know to answer immediately, that would take some time.

For passengers traveling with a full bus, there is another restriction, according to the regulations. Standing passengers are only allowed up to a speed of 60 km/h, which can significantly extend the trip to Starnberg. However, if the bus is full, it could certainly happen that the journey takes longer than originally targeted - which perhaps turns the fitness goals in the shadow for some travelers.

The current SEV situation not only shows the challenges of local public transport, but also how to use them for sporting activities. The bottom line is that chaos may be frustrating, but also offers space for unexpected encounters and adventures - a kind of modern fitness program through the Bavarian landscape.