Shortness of breath on the ICE: Police operation after a strange smell between Basel and Hamburg!

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Passengers on the ICE 72 from Basel to Hamburg complained about respiratory irritation on October 7th, 2025. On-site emergency manager. Cause unclear.

Fahrgäste im ICE 72 von Basel nach Hamburg klagen am 7.10.2025 über Atemwegsreizungen. Notfallmanager vor Ort. Ursache unklar.
Passengers on the ICE 72 from Basel to Hamburg complained about respiratory irritation on October 7th, 2025. On-site emergency manager. Cause unclear.

Shortness of breath on the ICE: Police operation after a strange smell between Basel and Hamburg!

On October 7, 2025, a worrying incident occurred on the ICE 72 traveling between Basel and Hamburg. Travelers complained of respiratory irritation caused by a pungent smell that spread throughout the train. At 7:30 p.m. the express train made an unscheduled stop at Bad Bevensen train station, Lower Saxony, where emergency services, the fire department and the state and federal police were immediately alerted. The security forces were quickly on site to clarify the incident and secure the situation. While the fire department was taking measurements, the “pungent” smell had already disappeared, making the cause of the problem even more unclear. According to [Radio Hamburg](https://www.radiohamburg.de/aktuelles/hamburg/Fahrg%C3%A4ste- Klagen-%C3%BCber-Atemwegsreizungen-id1488236.html), a total of 39 passengers were examined, but no inpatient treatment was necessary.

Deutsche Bahn had an emergency manager on site to coordinate operations, which shows how important a well-prepared response to such emergencies is. Compliance with safety standards is a central issue, not only in train traffic, but also in bus and transport as a whole. According to Nordsee-Zeitung, the affected car was blocked after the incident and the train was able to continue its journey to Hamburg an hour later. Despite the critical situation, all passengers were able to continue their journey.

Investigations and Security

The federal police have initiated an investigation to clarify the incident and are asking witnesses for information. This is crucial because public transport safety depends not only on technology, but also on effective management in emergencies. As is generally emphasized in the industry, comprehensive emergency preparedness is essential. Safety and health must always be a top priority in transport.

The incident reminds us how quickly situations can change and how important it is that drivers and safety teams are well trained and informed of the necessary procedures. In the event of any irregularities in the transport service, both passengers and staff should be prepared to act according to clear instructions. In cases like this, it is essential to remain calm and react quickly to ensure everyone's safety.

Finally, the question remains as to what exactly caused the irritating smell and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future. The investigation is expected to provide important insights that could lead to a safer travel experience for everyone.