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KVB sounds the alarm: Safety at Cologne stops is in danger!
In 2025, Cologne transport companies will face challenges such as homelessness and safety problems at stops.
KVB sounds the alarm: Safety at Cologne stops is in danger!
The Cologne transport company (KVB) is facing a huge challenge: more and more Cologne residents feel unsafe when traveling on buses and trains. A combination of tight financial resources, high levels of sick leave and delivery problems among vehicle manufacturers creates a tense working atmosphere. In this context, social problems have also arisen, which further affect passengers' sense of security. As the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger reports, homeless and drug addicts in particular use the subway stops, which increases the risk.
A look at the Appellhofplatz stop reveals how serious the situation is. Up to 45 homeless people can be found here in the early hours of the morning, not only spending the night but often also consuming drugs and leaving rubbish behind. The smell of urine and feces has become commonplace in subway stations, posing not only a practical challenge but also concern for parents who fear for their children's safety on the way to school. Stefanie Haaks, the CEO of the KVB, emphasizes that aggression against employees and passengers is increasing and that the KVB has already taken measures to counteract the situation.
Safety and cleanliness offensive
The KVB has planned a comprehensive safety and cleanliness offensive to address the growing problem. Drastic measures, such as closing stops during non-operational times, are being discussed for this initiative. The pilot project is to be tested at Appellhofplatz. The KVB is also considering further shortening the cleaning intervals and using stronger cleaning agents. From spring 2024, a concept called “SOS” is set to come into force, which envisages intensifying controls. 1.5 million euros have already been approved for implementation - but no money has arrived so far.
In addition, the KVB plans to introduce a shuttle bus to the emergency shelter for homeless people and even offer a warming room on a bus during the winter months. In order to make the stay at the stops more pleasant, the idea of playing music is also being tested. Nevertheless, financing remains a challenge. As the Rundschau Online explains, the KVB cannot cover the costs of additional security measures and cleanliness from its own budget.
Politics required
Politicians are required to quickly provide additional funds in this tense budget situation. The KVB, which transports more than 250 million passengers per year and has an extensive network of bus and light rail lines, has a responsibility towards the people of Cologne. It is urgently necessary that both the Stadtwerke Köln, which owns 90% of the KVB, and the city of Cologne, which has a 10% stake, ensure safety at the stops. Given the ongoing developments, committed and creative solutions are required to improve the situation and regain passengers' sense of security.