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Railway spokesperson allegedly inflates punctuality data, claims GDL

German Railway Accused of Altering Train Punctuality Statistics by the Locomotive Drivers Union (GDL)

Railway spokesman allegedly inflates punctuality statistics, claims GDL
Railway spokesman allegedly inflates punctuality statistics, claims GDL

Railway spokesperson allegedly inflates punctuality data, claims GDL

In a recent development, the Locomotive Drivers' Union (GDL) in Germany has accused Deutsche Bahn of manipulating train punctuality statistics. The allegations were made in response to a report by Der Spiegel, which claimed that Deutsche Bahn allegedly cancels trains to improve punctuality statistics.

Mario Reiss, the GDL chief, criticized Deutsche Bahn's management for trying to distract from real causes with 'number tricks' and 'empty runs.' He stated that removing trains from statistics to improve balance is not surprising. According to Reiss, this practice has been an open secret among industry professionals for some time.

Reiss demanded that Deutsche Bahn should no longer engage in 'alibi programs' that only serve image maintenance. He called for an 'honest error culture' that addresses the causes at the decaying structures and assigns clear responsibility at the top.

According to Reiss, train personnel regularly report situations where trains are removed from statistics in their daily work. He mentioned that train personnel have to absorb passengers' frustration despite limited information. Management, according to Reiß, tries to create a better image with cosmetic measures.

In response to the allegations, Deutsche Bahn has denied a media report claiming that they cancel trains to improve punctuality statistics. In a statement, they denied the portrayal by Der Spiegel that trains are cancelled to improve punctuality statistics.

Reiss, however, maintains that such measures are necessary to prevent the crisis from worsening and to restore trust in Deutsche Bahn as a means of transport and infrastructure in general. He stated that every single delay causes further delays.

The responsible executive for the allegedly manipulated train punctuality statistics at Deutsche Bahn was the head of the department overseeing punctuality reporting, though specific names have not been publicly confirmed. The union, according to Reiß, regularly reports such situations to the union.

Reiss's statement comes at a time when Deutsche Bahn is struggling to improve its punctuality record. The union's accusations have sparked a debate about transparency and accountability in the railway industry. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Deutsche Bahn will respond to these allegations and whether they will lead to any changes in the industry's practices.

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