DB emergency program for train stations targets safety and cleaning

Deutsche Bahn (DB) has launched the DB emergency program for train stations to raise safety and cleanliness across Germany, and the operator says the first changes should be visible as early as this year.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The move sits within the government’s push to lift passenger satisfaction, even as punctuality remains under pressure because of the heavy workload on the rail network.

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The program was presented at Berlin Central Station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof) by Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla alongside Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, as outlined by Deutsche Bahn. DB says the first package of measures will start at 25 stations nationwide, with the list to be expanded during the year.

Station safety measures: more staff, patrols and CCTV

For station security, Deutsche Bahn station safety and cleanliness efforts focus on adding more security personnel, stepping up patrols, and expanding video surveillance in German train stations. In 2026, several major stations—including Mainz, Mannheim and Hamburg—are set to receive extra security staff. DB says around 11,000 video cameras are already operating across German train stations, and it is working with the federal police to expand coverage further. A prevention campaign will also promote respect for employees and civic responsibility in station public areas.

Intensified cleaning and rapid repairs in 2026

On the maintenance side, DB plans intensified cleaning and rapid repairs in 2026 at both major hubs and smaller stations. Twice as many as last year, 1,400 stations will take part in spring cleaning campaigns, many of them in rural areas. The work will include deep cleaning of platforms, passageways, elevators, glass surfaces, furniture and passenger equipment, and it will also cover the removal of graffiti and chewing gum. In some locations, local authorities and station tenants will support these operations.

To speed up fixes, DB will deploy mobile intervention teams for quick repairs. These units are intended to address minor defects promptly—from broken windows and vandalized panels to small finishing work. The model has already been tested in a pilot project, and DB says its nationwide rollout is underway.

Additional funding and the aim for visible improvements

DB management says approximately EUR 50 million will be allocated additionally this year for station safety and cleanliness measures, as reported by Railway Supply. Deutsche Bahn stresses that passengers should quickly see concrete improvements, even though 2026 is expected to remain difficult for train punctuality, a message also reflected in Railway Pro.

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