Chaos in public transport: bus drivers as a victim of increasing violence!

Chaos in public transport: bus drivers as a victim of increasing violence!

In Upper Austria, a disturbing event re-lifted the discussion about the security of bus drivers: a bus driver on the Mattigtal route was threatened by a passenger with a knife. However, this is not an isolated case, because violence and aggression towards the steering staff are increasing drastically, as reported ooe.orf.at . The Upper Austrian Transport Association (OÖVV) is therefore planning new security measures to better protect the driver.

In order to reduce violence in public transport, targeted de-escalation and communication training are integrated into the training. According to the State Council of Transport Günther Steinkellner, concern about the increasing violence against bus drivers shows that the disrespect and disregard for social norms has increased immeasurably. The failed migration and integration measures that have contributed to not conveying central values such as respect and order are particularly worrying.

new standards to ensure optimal conditions

The recent incidents have prompted the OÖVV to introduce additional quality standards to ensure the safety of the bus drivers. These measures also include compliance with rules and the recognition of the basic values in society, such as fpoeoe.at . This development is a sign of the necessary steps that must be undertaken to combat increasing violence in public space.

Stone waiter emphasizes that these security measures are not the only solution. A rethink in the political strategy is necessary to ensure order in public space: "We must not accept that bus drivers who provide a valuable service for the population are exposed to permanent threats," he explains. Here a strict zero tolerance policy against violence is required to ensure the safety of employees and to counteract the gradual brutalization of society.