BERLIN: Public transport across Germany was severely disrupted on Monday as nationwide strikes affected nearly all of the country’s 16 federal states, with workers demanding better working conditions, reported Xinhua.
The walkout, called by the Verdi trade union, halted buses, trams, and underground services from 3 am (0200 GMT) on Monday, causing major disruption for commuters already grappling with icy roads.
According to the German Automobile Club, the impact on road traffic was particularly noticeable during the morning rush hour, especially in major metropolitan areas, as many commuters set off earlier than usual.
Ride-hailing service provider Freenow reported a sharp surge in taxi demand during the morning. It logged around 1.5 times the usual number of requests for a Monday.
In Hamburg, requests were more than four times higher, while demand tripled in Munich and was roughly 50 per cent higher in Berlin.
Verdi said the strikes aim to seek significant improvements in working conditions for public transport workers, including shorter weekly hours and shift lengths, longer rest periods, and higher bonuses for night and weekend work.
Winter weather compounded the disruption with the German Weather Service warning that freezing rain and icy roads were affecting parts of the country.
Prolonged winter conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and snowfall, have already caused transport disruption in some cities, including Berlin. – BERNAMA-XINHUA
