Berlin's public transport system, operated by BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe), is facing significant challenges as it prepares to introduce new train cars while grappling with financial losses and operational inefficiencies. Starting in July 2026, BVG plans to roll out 344 new Type J train cars on the U5 subway line, a move that initially seems promising amid frequent delays and cancellations on the line.
However, a recently released business report from BVG reveals troubling delays in the planning and implementation of the necessary infrastructure to support these new vehicles. The report highlights that the three workshops currently in operation need extensive renovations and expansions to accommodate the new fleet. Currently, only the Machandelweg workshop at the Olympia-Stadion station is equipped to handle the new trains, but it is only servicing issues for the U1 and U4 lines. Any problems with the U5 trains would require them to be sent to the Friedrichsfelde workshop, which is also lagging behind on renovations.
As a result, the BVG is bracing for potential bottlenecks in vehicle availability and maintenance, which could lead to longer wait times for passengers. The business report states, "In the medium term, there may be bottlenecks in the provision, maintenance, and availability of subway vehicles," indicating a grim outlook for commuters.
Adding to the woes, BVG reported a staggering loss of 56 million euros for 2024, as revealed in their financial report. The company anticipates that the losses could escalate to over 113 million euros in 2025, citing significant operational risks. The report describes 2024 as a "difficult year" as BVG confronts the limits of its growth, particularly with its aging fleet and outdated technology.
Despite these challenges, ridership has increased, with BVG recording 1.109 billion passenger trips in 2024, a four percent rise from the previous year. However, the reliability of the service has come under scrutiny, with every 17th U-Bahn train being canceled and the percentage of completed trips dropping to 94 percent from 97.5 percent in 2023.
The state of Berlin is stepping in to support BVG financially, working on an agreement to stabilize fare revenues. If the company incurs losses due to this arrangement, the state will cover the shortfall, a move aimed at ensuring the continued operation of public transport in the city.
In response to the operational challenges, BVG has initiated several projects aimed at improving service quality. The "Reinigungsstreife" project, designed to enhance safety perceptions in the U-Bahn, has been successfully tested and implemented. Additionally, new U-Bahn and tram vehicles are currently in test operation, with plans to make them available to passengers soon.
Moreover, BVG's e-bus fleet has seen a significant increase in total mileage, rising by 20 percent to 8.16 million kilometers compared to the previous year. The first dedicated e-bus workshop opened at the Indira-Gandhi-Straße depot in 2024, marking a step forward in the company's transition to electric buses.
Despite the operational setbacks, BVG has managed to increase its workforce, with the total number of employees rising to 16,588. The number of employees in operational areas has grown by 210 compared to 2023, reflecting the company's commitment to addressing staffing shortages.
However, the BVG's board has acknowledged that the company has reached a critical juncture, stating that it is now focused on "stability before growth." This approach emphasizes the need to prioritize the quality of service over expansion projects that may not be feasible given the current circumstances.
As the BVG prepares for the rollout of new train cars and continues to address its financial and operational challenges, passengers are left wondering how these changes will impact their daily commutes. With longer wait times and potential service disruptions on the horizon, the future of public transport in Berlin remains uncertain.
In conclusion, while BVG is taking steps to improve its services and expand its fleet, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The company's ability to navigate these obstacles will be crucial in ensuring that Berlin's public transport system remains reliable and efficient for its growing number of passengers.
