The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport has presented the results of a task force on improving railway reliability, bringing together key actors from across the rail sector, including EPF member organisation Pro Bahn.

The initiative brings together key actors from across the rail sector to address ongoing challenges related to punctuality, infrastructure capacity and operational stability. The results set out a number of measures to improve day-to-day performance, including better coordination between infrastructure managers and railway undertakings, more efficient use of network capacity, and targeted steps to reduce delays and disruptions.

The task force results are intended to stabilise operations in the short to medium term, particularly as the network faces increasing pressure from high demand and infrastructure constraints. Strengthening planning processes and operational coordination is seen as key to improving reliability for passengers.

Pro Bahn welcomed the initiative as an important step in the right direction. At the same time, it underlined that these measures mainly address immediate challenges and should be complemented by longer-term solutions. In its press release, Pro Bahn compares the approach to a form of “short-term relief”, useful in addressing current issues, but not sufficient on its own.

The organisation points to the need for more fundamental action, particularly in relation to infrastructure investment, capacity expansion and overall system resilience. Without addressing these structural aspects, improvements in reliability risk remaining limited.

From a passenger perspective, reliability is essential. Delays and disruptions not only affect individual journeys but also shape how people perceive rail as a dependable and attractive mode of transport.

At EPF, we welcome initiatives that aim to improve day-to-day performance, while also recognising the importance of a long-term, systemic approach to ensure reliable and passenger-focused rail services.

For more information, please consult the full press release published by Pro Bahn.