'We're going to do it': Deutsche Bahn wants to ban alcohol at all stations

The German national railway company, Deutsche Bahn, has announced plans to ban alcohol consumption at all 5,400 train stations across Germany. The measure aims to enhance safety and reduce conflicts among passengers and staff. Implementation of the policy is set to be completed by October 15, 2026. This decision was confirmed by the company’s leadership following reports from multiple media outlets. The proposed rule prohibits drinking alcohol on platforms or in station halls outside designated dining areas. Previously, such restrictions were limited to major hubs like Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Cologne. Now, the company intends to expand these rules nationwide. Local house regulations will need updating in coordination with municipal authorities and government agencies, according to recent reports. Deutsche Bahn's chief executive, Evelyn Palla, emphasized the necessity of stricter measures. She told Bild magazine, “It’s enough. We’re going further. We want more order and security on our stations and trains. For me, it’s only about protecting our employees and travelers.” In a separate statement to Reuters, she added, “Too often, we’ve had to conclude that where excessive alcohol flows, violence increases.” Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt acknowledged the initiative as a positive step toward improving conditions at train stations. However, he noted that enforcement remains a challenge. Further discussions are necessary to ensure compliance and address potential legal hurdles. A recent incident involving a security worker highlights the urgency of the policy change. During a confrontation with an intoxicated passenger, the employee was severely injured and thrown from a moving train traveling at 120 kilometers per hour. The exact circumstances of the attack remain unclear, though Palla described it as “brutal and senseless.” Enforcement of the alcohol ban will be handled by Deutsche Bahn’s security personnel and federal police. Individuals caught consuming alcohol illegally will face immediate expulsion from the premises. Repeat offenders could be banned from entering the station permanently, as stated by Bild. In Hamburg, where a general alcohol ban was introduced in April 2024, the company reported notable improvements. Conflicts and altercations decreased significantly, and passenger safety improved. Cleaning efforts also saw a reduction, according to initial assessments released at the time. While the policy does not extend to train carriages, where smoking is already prohibited, the company expects similar benefits from banning alcohol at stations. The move reflects broader efforts to create safer environments for both staff and travelers. As the implementation date approaches, further communication with local authorities and ongoing monitoring will be essential to manage the transition smoothly.