Massive Public Transport Strike Paralyzes German Cities

(MENAFN) Tens of thousands of public transport workers in Germany have gone on strike, bringing bus, tram, and subway services to a halt across much of the country and leaving urban centers paralyzed. Workers are pressing for higher wages and improved working conditions.

Freezing temperatures in many regions have added to the disruption, forcing commuters to seek alternative transportation. The strike began at 3 a.m. local time on Monday, affecting nearly all German states except Lower Saxony.

The action was organized by the Verdi trade union, which represents roughly 100,000 public transport employees. Negotiations with municipal and state transport authorities broke down after talks failed to resolve disputes over wages and working hours. Verdi is pushing for shorter work weeks, longer rest periods, and higher bonuses for night and weekend shifts, though many cities are struggling with tight budgets.

Speaking to local media, Verdi representative Frank Schischefsky defended the strike: “We can’t choose the timing of the wage dispute. Unfortunately, we can’t wait for better weather.”

The next round of negotiations is scheduled for February 9, and Verdi has warned that additional strikes could occur if employers do not meet their demands.

MENAFN03022026000045017640ID1110687305