Deutsche Bahn (DB) has launched an immediate action programme aimed at improving safety and cleanliness at train stations across Germany, starting with 25 locations nationwide.
The initiative was formally presented at Berlin Central Station by DB chief executive Evelyn Palla and Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder.
The programme forms part of the Federal Government’s agenda to improve customer satisfaction on the railways. It focuses on measures that can be implemented quickly, including an increased security presence, additional cleaning, and faster repairs at stations. DB has said further stations will be added to the programme over the course of the year.
Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder, DB CEO Evelyn Palla, CEO of DB AG, Dr. Katja Hüske, Board Member for Passenger Stations at DB InfraGO
© Deutsche Bahn
Around 50 million EUR in additional funding has been allocated in 2026 specifically for safety and cleanliness at stations. Measures include deploying more security staff, expanding the use of video surveillance in cooperation with the Federal Police, and increasing the frequency of cleaning. Around 11,000 cameras are already in operation at German train stations, with further installations planned.
Patrick Schnieder, Federal Minister of Transport said:
With our agenda for satisfied rail customers, we have set the decisive course for a better railway. Many measures, such as the modernisation of the network, take time. But there are also many things that can be improved immediately. These include the cleanliness and safety of our train stations. If citizens don’t feel safe at certain stations, I expect swift action. And that’s exactly what the railway is doing: with more patrols and technology for your safety, as well as a cleaning initiative for a better appearance of our stations.
Additional security patrols are scheduled for a number of major stations, including those in Mainz, Mannheim and Hamburg. The programme is also accompanied by a prevention campaign intended to promote respectful behaviour towards staff and encourage responsible use of station facilities.
On cleanliness, DB plans to intensify regular cleaning work and significantly expand its annual spring cleaning campaign. In 2026, spring cleaning will take place at around 1,400 stations, double the number covered the previous year. The stations selected include both large urban hubs and smaller stations in rural areas, such as Bitterfeld, Greifswald and Remagen. Cleaning activities will focus on platforms, stairways, tunnels, lifts, glass surfaces, ticket machines, furniture and signage, as well as the removal of graffiti and chewing gum. Local authorities and station tenants are expected to assist at some locations.
Deutsche Bahn is also introducing mobile maintenance teams to carry out minor repairs more quickly. These teams will handle tasks such as replacing broken glass, repainting walls affected by graffiti and repairing display cases. The approach has already been tested in a pilot project and recruitment of maintenance staff is now underway across Germany.
Evelyn Palla, CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG said:
First impressions count. Our train stations are our calling card. We are taking numerous consistent steps to ensure that our customers feel welcome and safe at our stations. This year, a total of around €50 million in additional funding is available for safety and cleanliness at our stations. Our passengers should experience rapid positive changes – even if punctuality will remain a challenge in 2026 due to the enormous amount of construction work underway.