Public transport users across Bochum and its neighboring areas faced significant disruption on February 10, 2025, due to a warning strike called by the union Verdi at Bogestra, the region's main public transport provider.
All bus and train services ceased operations from the start of the day until the end, affecting the entire operational area of Bogestra. This meant no movement for any public transport, including services provided by external companies working under the Bogestra umbrella.
The strike was initiated following the first round of negotiations between the union and management ending without resolution. According to union representatives, the staffing situation within local transport companies is dire, with minimal applications for positions and existing staff stretched thin. "The burden on our colleagues is no longer tolerable," asserted Patrick Steinbach, the spokesperson for Bogestra's employee representatives. "This strike is about much more than just wages; it's about alleviating the pressure on workers. We need options for converting salary to time off to really make service sustainable for the folks constantly delivering public transport here."
During the strike, Bogestra emphasized, "all customer centers will be closed, and our mobility guarantees along with punctuality promises will not apply." For customers seeking information, the company provided a free hotline available throughout the day.
Students and employees were particularly impacted, facing challenges getting to their destinations. The Minister of Education from Nordrhein-Westfalen reminded families of their responsibility to make arrangements for their children to attend school, even amid transportation disruptions. "If the route is deemed unacceptable for any students, those absences will be excused,” the Minister clarified.
Alternatives for commuters became necessary on this strike day. Notably, Voi, the e-scooter rental service, announced it would increase the number of e-scooters available around Bochum, expecting double the usual demand. This highlights how users often seek flexibility during transport strikes, searching for alternative mobility solutions.
The union's demands highlighted during the negotiations included an 8% wage increase and at least 350 euros more per month, alongside elevated bonuses for particularly strenuous work and enhanced training compensation. Flexibility around work hours and additional paid time off were also major points of contention, aimed at mitigating stress levels among employees who are increasingly taking on more responsibilities.
Union representatives were vocal about their displeasure with the lackluster response from management during negotiations. "The delaying tactics from employers are unacceptable," stated Dominik Wagner, deputy spokesperson for Vestische's employee representatives, echoing the sentiment within the public transport community.
This warning strike shines a light on the broader issues facing public transport systems, where staffing shortages lead to operational risks, impacting service reliability across the board. With the next negotiation round scheduled for mid-February, hopeful eyes are directed toward management for more substantial offers as workers rally for fair treatment and conditions.
Businesses and local communities will be watching closely as the negotiations evolve after the strike. Meanwhile, Bogestra reassured the public of resuming normal operations starting February 11, 2025, following the culmination of these labor actions.