128,000 sign petition for family reservations at german rail
Around 128,000 citizens have signed a petition by the German Transport Club demanding the reintroduction of family reservations at Deutsche Bahn. The initiative was handed over to the rail operator, criticizing its current service policy. Until mid-June, families could reserve seats at a flat rate, a practice now abolished.
The German Transport Club (VCD) has handed over a petition with about 128,000 signatures to Deutsche Bahn. VCD chairman Matthias Kurzeck told the 'Rheinische Post' that it is 'a strong signal that the DB is on the wrong track with its service policy'.
The demand concerns travel on long-distance trains. Until mid-June, parents could reserve any number of seats for themselves and their children at a flat rate. The rail operator abolished this regulation despite criticism from associations and politicians. It emphasizes, however, that children up to and including 14 years travel free when accompanied by adults.
Kurzeck referred to the recently published 'Agenda for satisfied customers on the rails' by Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schneider (CDU). He urged the Bahn and the Transport Ministry to reintroduce family reservations for the December timetable change. Since the abolition, a family of four must pay an additional 44 euros for round-trip seat reservations.
The petition highlights dissatisfaction with the changes burdening families. Deutsche Bahn has so far stuck to its decision.