German spirit lacks motivation or impetus.
In the heart of Europe, the German Rail, once a symbol of efficiency and reliability, finds itself in a state of flux. A series of reforms and cost-cutting measures, influenced by market and profit pressure, have contributed to its current predicament.
The rail network in neighbouring countries like Switzerland and Austria, however, have received significantly more investment per capita compared to Germany. In 2016, Germany invested just 64 euros per capita, while Switzerland invested 378 euros and Austria 198 euros.
The German Rail's struggle to generate profits and serve the common good is evident. Since the reform of 1994, the rail network has seen cutbacks, including staff reductions, fewer switches and tracks, closed stations, and disconnection of certain cities from the network.
Amidst this backdrop, a work by James Krüss, "Henriette Bimmelbahn," offers a refreshing contrast. This poem or song, written in the 21st century, begins with the line, "Henriette is the name of the nice, old little Bimmelbahn." Although the Bimmelbahn is a reference to a train or a similar transportation system, it does not run on a schedule, unlike the German Rail.
The author of "Henriette Bimmelbahn" is not specified in the provided paragraphs, but the work is a century-old text in the German language, adding to its charm and appeal. The poem's familiar tune serves as a poignant reminder of a time when the German Rail may have been synonymous with reliability and punctuality.
Under the leadership of ministers like Alexander Dobrindt, Peter Ramsauer, and Andreas Scheuer, the German Rail has navigated a period of decline. Dobrindt, who was the last Federal Minister for Transport, Building and Digital Infrastructure before Scheuer, oversaw the rail network during part of this period.
As the German Rail continues to grapple with its current state, "Henriette Bimmelbahn" stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the charm and simplicity of a well-functioning transportation system. Whether it's the rail network or a poem, the pursuit of efficiency, reliability, and service to the common good remains a worthy endeavour.
