Munich Public Transport Strike Continues: Limited Services on Thursday
Munich, March 19 – Public transport in Munich faces significant disruption today as a two-day warning strike called by the Verdi trade union continues. The strike, which began yesterday with a partial walkout, is affecting U-Bahn, tram, and bus services across the city. The Münchner Verkehrsgesellschaft (MVG) is attempting to mitigate the impact with an emergency schedule.
Full-Day Strike on Thursday Following Partial Walkout
Workers began their industrial action yesterday, Wednesday, at 11:00 AM. Today, Thursday, the strike is a full-day event, lasting until the start of operations on Friday morning. Striking workers are scheduled to gather for a rally at Marienplatz at 1:30 PM.
What Services Are Currently Running?
According to the MVG, buses are operating on almost all lines throughout the city, though with a reduced frequency. This provides a crucial alternative for commuters.
For trams, the highly frequented line 20 is in service, running every ten minutes. Additionally, trams are operating on line 25, with a 20-minute frequency.
The U-Bahn network is largely affected. Trains are currently only running on the section between Münchner Freiheit and Sendlinger Tor. All other U-Bahn sections are out of service. The MVG also advises that U-Bahn journeys are not being displayed in the regular timetable information systems.
Precautionary Measures Taken to Avoid Further Disruption
Yesterday, MVG employees ceased work at 11:00 AM, but vehicles were gradually moved to depots from 9:00 AM onwards. This preventative measure ensured that no trams, U-Bahns, or buses were left stranded on their routes when the strike officially began. From 11:00 AM, the emergency network, similar to those implemented during previous strike rounds, was activated. A feared traffic chaos did not materialize.
Stay Updated with MVG Information Channels
The MVG is continuously updating information regarding specific services on its website, mvg.de, and through the MVGO app. Commuters are advised to check these platforms regularly for the latest operational status.
Background to the Strike
The Verdi trade union called the warning strike as part of ongoing collective bargaining negotiations for public transport employees. The union is demanding improved working conditions and higher wages for its members, citing the increasing workload and rising cost of living.
The strike highlights the ongoing challenges in public transport, with unions advocating for better conditions for workers while transport companies face financial constraints and the need to maintain services for millions of commuters.
Further updates on the strike and its impact on public transport in Munich are expected as negotiations progress and the industrial action continues into Friday morning.
