The term evokes unpleasant memories: With a comprehensive "railway reform" in 1994, politicians had already tried to give Deutsche Bahn new momentum. At that time, however, the focus was different: the taxpayer was to be less burdened, the state-owned company was to be trimmed for profit. A dilapidated rail network and a notoriously unpunctual means of transport were the result of this reconstruction. The whole plight of Deutsche Bahn is evident at a time when it is most urgently needed for climate protection.
Thirty years later, the priorities of the second railway reform have therefore shifted considerably: Now Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing wants to launch a new company whose objectives are already in the name. A "public welfare-oriented infrastructure company", called Infra Go, is intended to make it clear to every rail passenger that the rail network and stations belong to everyone and therefore cannot serve to maximise the profits of a corporation.
Pragmatic solutions needed
Transport Minister Wissing is now faced with the challenge of finding a pragmatic solution that will quickly bring the hoped-for results. The SPD, Greens and FDP have already agreed on the Infra Go in the coalition agreement. It is one of the few fundamental decisions that the traffic light still feels bound by today – fortunately. A clear separation between the rail network and rail operations may be the better solution at the green table, but there is a lack of convincing examples of how it can work soundly in practice – without creating new problems. That's why it made sense for the traffic light government to agree on the "separation light" model almost two years ago – and to see it through now.
However, even these plans are not yet the last word in wisdom. Much is still unclear, and the associations will loudly express their displeasure about it. There is also a lot to change in terms of financing. The Infra Go is therefore only the first step towards railway reform. But it is good that the debate is now gaining momentum.