Berlin is facing significant disruptions to its public transportation as the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) workers launched a full-day warning strike early on February 10, starting at 3 AM and scheduled to last until 3 AM the following day. The strike, orchestrated by the Verdi union representing about 16,000 BVG employees, has led to the suspension of all U-Bahn, Straßenbahn, and most bus services across the city, compelling many commuters to seek alternative transportation.
According to Jeremy Arndt, the spokesperson for Verdi, the action was implemented to demand higher wages as negotiations for tangible salary increases have stagnated. "The strike has started on time, and all vehicles are on the yard," stated Arndt to the KURIER, emphasizing the high turnout and commitment by workers. The union is pushing for at least €750 more per month, which translates to roughly 25% higher salaries for the affected employees. This demand, Arndt noted, reflects the workers' need for fair compensation post-COVID.
Throughout Berlin, the impact of the strike is palpable, with traffic congestion expected to swell as frustrated commuters turn to their personal vehicles, bicycles, or even walk to their destinations. The Verkehrsinformationszentrale (VIZ) reports, "Streets are expected to be much busier than usual," hinting at anticipated delays across major routes as commuters grapple with the transportation void left by the BVG's strike.
While the majority of public transport ground to halt, it's important to note some services remain operational. The S-Bahn, which is operated by Deutsche Bahn and not affected by the BVG strike, is still running, albeit potentially overcrowded due to the influx of commuters turning to trains as the rest of the transport system falters. BVG encourages passengers to check their website or app for real-time information, providing updates on limited services.
Aside from the S-Bahn, some bus lines contracted through other companies not directly under BVG's management will remain functional, including bus lines 106, 114, 118, 133, 161, 168,175, and others. Many of these routes serve travelers from the city fringes to nearby train stations. For those left without adequate options, sharing service platforms like Jelbi offer some respite, providing ride-hailing services, though these are expected to be strained due to the increased demand.
Commuters have expressed mixed feelings about the disruptions. Many understand the employees' motivations; as one passerby near Alexanderplatz remarked, "I have full sympathy for the strikers," highlighting solidarity with their cause. Stories of early mornings and long walks were common as individuals planned for the contingency of bus delays or cancellations. For example, residents of Märkisches Viertel had to leave their homes much earlier than usual, some by 20 minutes or more, to arrive at work on time, oftentimes relying on information from friends or neighbors about bus operations.
Further adding to the complexity are the city’s roadworks already involving significant construction projects, compounding the congestion issues. Areas like Neu-Hohenschönhausen and Oberschöneweide underwent road repairs, creating additional bottlenecks for those driving. Local traffic authorities are advising drivers to prepare for extended travel times, primarily on major arterial roads and during peak commuting hours.
The union Verdi launched this strike as their second warning action this year amid stalled negotiations, as last-minute talks with BVG over pay rates failed to produce satisfactory results. A previous proposal offered by BVG suggested increases between 15% to 15.3% across four years starting from January 2025, which the union has deemed insufficient. Frustrated with the stagnant talks, Verdi has escalated to this warning strike as both parties continue to clash with differing expectations.
Looking ahead, the next round of negotiations is eagerly awaited, as tensions rise not only among the workers but also among the passengers reliant on public transport for their daily needs. BVG’s management has expressed their frustration, issuing statements indicating they haven’t seen significant feedback from the union on the negotiation proposals, calling the strike counterproductive. "The union escalates negotiations on the backs of passengers without engaging with our concrete proposals," BVG lamented.
Time will tell how both the BVG and Verdi reach common ground, but for Bernstein and hundreds of thousands of commuters, this day has been filled with unexpected hurdles. Several commuters remarked how they felt caught between supporting the workers’ rights and coping with the disruptions to their daily routines. Whether through alternative routes or working from home, the impact of the BVG strike is undeniable across Berlin's vibrant cityscape as the workforce and public transport adapt to the day’s challenges.