Chaos in the crowded train: argument escalates on Timmendorfer Strand!

Chaos in the crowded train: argument escalates on Timmendorfer Strand!

On the evening of June 22, 2025 at 6:35 p.m., an incident occurred on the RB 85 regional train from Timmendorfer Strand to Lübeck that severely strained the passengers' nerves. The train was extremely overcrowded due to the intense holiday traffic, so many travelers were unable to board at all. The overcrowded conditions led to a heated argument among the passengers, which eventually escalated and resulted in serious threats, as NDR reports.

The situation required the intervention of the federal police, who are now investigating threats and coercion. Some of the statements made during the argument could be criminal, prompting authorities to seek witnesses who can provide further information about the incident. It is hoped that such incidents can be avoided in the future.

High demand and full trains

The summer travel season causes a sharp increase in demand for regional trains in Germany. According to rbb24, the Deutschlandticket, which offers cheap travel options for many, has led to increased occupancy. Train companies such as Deutsche Bahn and ODEG confirm that the trains are bursting at the seams, especially on weekends and public holidays. So it is not uncommon for there not to be enough space for everyone who wants to travel when there is a lot of traffic.

However, those responsible have little room for maneuver due to long-term planning and procurement procedures that determine decisions about train connections up to five years in advance. Unfortunately, there are currently no short-term train extensions or reinforcement trains as the infrastructure is already heavily utilized. In order to defuse the tense situations, the railway companies recommend that travelers use narrow times and avoid traffic peaks.

Disclosure of Information and Compensation

For travelers there are now additional trains on various lines, which are well received. This includes the introduction of new trains on the RE3 and RE5 lines by Deutsche Bahn. In order to inform passengers about how busy the trains are, corresponding information is available in the DB app and on the website. ODEG has increased the frequency and capacities in the Elbe-Spree network since December 2022, which is optimistic.

Fortunately, the new passenger rights, which have been in force since June 7, 2023, are also an attempt to improve traveler satisfaction. Passengers are entitled to compensation for delays of 60 minutes or more. However, there are some exceptions, such as in extreme weather conditions, where travelers unfortunately come away empty-handed.

Deutsche Bahn's utilization statistics for long-distance transport also show that demand is constantly growing, a trend that is unlikely to stop in the coming years. Statista has clearly documented this and thus confirms the challenges that rail companies face.

Overall, it is clear that rail continues to gain popularity as an important means of transport in Germany, which brings with it both opportunities and challenges. The events on the regional train between Timmendorfer Strand and Lübeck are an example of how quickly a relaxing journey can turn into a tense experience if capacities cannot keep up with demand.