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Wave of vandalism in Cologne: parking ticket machines are becoming a target!
Vandalism at parking ticket machines is increasing in Lindenthal and Cologne, causing extensive damage and posing challenges for the city.
Wave of vandalism in Cologne: parking ticket machines are becoming a target!
A worrying trend is causing a stir in Cologne: more and more parking ticket machines are being vandalized. The city government has already reported 54 cases this year and all signs point to the problem continuing to spread. Almost 100 vandalized devices have been reported since the beginning of the year, which is of enormous financial significance. By the end of September 2023, the repair costs will add up to a shocking 159,000 euros - four times more than the entire year of 2024, in which the damage only amounted to 41,000 euros. That's what she reports South German newspaper.
The districts of Ehrenfeld, Lindenthal and parts of the city center are particularly affected. Not only were the control panels and card readers of the machines, but also the issuing compartments for coins and tickets as well as the interior of the machines severely damaged. The WDR reports that the police have now identified entire streets as particularly affected. What is striking is that the vandalism began in Ehrenfeld and gradually spread to other areas.
Frustration among citizens
The motivation for this vandalism remains a mystery. So far there is no letter of responsibility and only one suspect has been found so far. The perpetrators appear to be less interested in financial incentives with their actions, as card payments and parking apps have long since established themselves as popular alternatives to cash.
Where is this all leading?
The city and police are faced with a dilemma. While vandalism continues to tear a financial hole in the city's coffers, comparable cities such as Munich, Düsseldorf or Berlin do not have to contend with similar problems. In Bergisch Gladbach they have already reacted and are planning to dismantle the parking ticket machines from January 1st. In the future, the fees will be paid there via an app.
An outlook on the further development of the situation in Cologne remains exciting. It is clear that both the city administration and the citizens care about new solutions to ensure safety and comfort in urban areas. We will be curious to see how the situation develops further.