Holger Kodim fights for the return of the train to the Uckermark

Holger Kodim fights for the return of the train to the Uckermark

The future of the rail connection in the Uckermark is on the brink, but Holger Kodim, a committed railway, is determined to capture this tradition. Together with like-minded people in 2023, the 63-year-old founded the Deutsche Reichsbahn & Länderbahn Foundation, with the aim of the train lines in the region from Templin for years Prenzlau, Pasewalk, Strasburg and Ueckermünde to revive.

A historical heritage in sight

Kodim remembers the time before the turn when rail traffic in the GDR was effective and reliable. "In the past, we handled 80 percent of traffic on the rail. In the GDR it worked," he says. According to his statements, train cancellations were rarity at the time and contributed to the fact that the region was well connected to the overarching transport network. These memories are in stark contrast to today's circumstances, where train failures, delays and inadequate rail replacement traffic shape everyday life.

A vision for the region

The initiative of Kodim and its colleagues should not only revitalize rail traffic, but also create economic incentives for the region. "When the train runs, it brings millions of euros to the region every year," he explains. In his opinion, the reactivation of the railway could also increase the tourist attractiveness of the area, which is increasingly suspended. "People are interested in rural life and the train can help to maintain this connection," he adds.

Challenges

However, Kodim also sees considerable obstacles on his way. In the municipalities, efforts are underway to convert old train tracks into bike paths, which in his opinion should be regarded as a "one -sided political decision". "Just relying on a horse does not make sense," he comments, pointing out that many bike tourists usually only cover short distances and will not be able to contribute enough funds to maintain the cycle paths.

Integration of the community and old values

Kodim believes that the reactivation of the railway can be advantageous for both old railroaders and for new generations of passengers. "You can rely on the old GDR forces," he emphasizes, and is optimistic that many retired railroaders are willing to return to their job as soon as there are opportunities. The foundation has already taken the first steps, such as the procurement of vehicles and tidying up tracks.

Future Perspectives

Although the challenges are great and the financing of the projects remains unclear, the vision of the Uckermark railway remains alive. Kodim and his team are committed to ensuring that historical rail traffic contributes to the revitalization of the region again, and they hope for more political support and commitment to the local population. "We want to create winning situations. This is only possible by train," he concludes with emphasis.

- Nag