The German Federal Audit Office has criticized Transport Minister Volker Wissing for his inadequate influence over Deutsche Bahn. A recent report highlights that Wissing's efforts have not effectively increased governmental control over the railway company. The report suggests that the intended oversight and transformation initiatives, such as the 'Steuerungsgruppe Transformation DB AG', have failed to bring about substantial influence or improvement.
Critics argue that the ministry's leadership has repeatedly hindered the assertion of federal interests against those of Deutsche Bahn. Additionally, the ministry has been criticized for accepting the company's resistance to structural changes. This lack of progress is deemed unacceptable by the audit office, leaving taxpayers and travelers at a disadvantage, as they continue to rely on an outdated railway system.
Despite these criticisms, Deutsche Bahn has presented a renovation plan, aimed at improving punctuality and operational efficiency. This plan includes cost-saving measures in administrative areas and the ongoing renovation of key routes, like the Riedbahn between Frankfurt and Mannheim, which is expected to be completed by mid-December. However, the audit office maintains that these measures are insufficient, calling for a more substantial restructuring to meet federal objectives.
The report has sparked further political debate, with some opposition figures accusing Wissing of failing altogether in his railway management strategies. They suggest a separation of infrastructure from transport operations to align Deutsche Bahn more closely with national interests. As the sole owner of Deutsche Bahn, the federal government is urged to exert greater influence over its infrastructure policies.
