A public transport strike has paralyzed the city in Berlin. The 48-hour strike was launched by workers demanding better wages, and the U-Bahn, trams and buses have been grounded for the duration. The impact of the strike is having a negative impact on millions of Berliners who are busy exploring the city. During this time, restaurants are struggling with cancelled reservations, schools and preschools are closed, office workers are working from home, traffic is increasing and hospital staff are having difficulty getting to work.
Details and Effects of the Strike
The strike is set to begin at 03.00:XNUMX on Wednesday and will end at the same time on Friday. During this time, underground services, trams and buses will largely be at a standstill. However, S-Bahn services are running smoothly and Deutsche Bahn continues to operate the unaffected routes. The BVG is keeping operational details up-to-date on its website, where passengers are advised to follow up.
Dispute Between Union and Company
The ongoing wage negotiations between the BVG and the Verdi union are currently at a standstill. Verdi is demanding a monthly increase of $813, travel allowance and a 13th salary, while the BVG is only offering a 13,6% increase. The differences between the parties are huge and no agreement has been reached so far. This has led to Berliners striking for the fifth time this year, but the tensions are still not resolved.
Warning Strikes and Future Dangers
The strike is said to be a short-term warning action. Each strike puts pressure on the parties and allows progress in negotiations. However, if the disagreements continue for a long time, indefinite strikes and disruptions could escalate. In this case, daily life in Berlin could become increasingly chaotic.
As traffic congestion worsens, Berliners are looking for alternative ways to get to work. Some prefer to cycle or walk. However, this solution is not suitable for all Berliners, and disruptions to basic services are growing, creating more and more problems. Restaurants are losing money due to cancellations, parents are struggling to afford childcare due to school closures, and local businesses are being hit hard by the economic downturn.
Union Demands and BVG's Defense
Verdi union members are making their voices heard by holding rallies demanding fair compensation. The BVG, on the other hand, defends its offer by stating that financial constraints prevent bigger increases. However, the disagreement between the parties is deepening and the negotiations are not making any progress.
Berlin's Situation and Future Prospects
Berlin has realized that this strike process has exposed deepening problems and that life in the city could become even more difficult. People's patience is quickly wearing thin and the pressure on both sides is increasing. The city is monitoring the situation closely and hopes that a solution can be found before the disruptions get worse. This crisis will be a major test for Berlin, waiting for a permanent solution.
