Passengers of Hamburg-Holstein’s public transport (VHH) must prepare for further disruptions as the ver.di union has announced additional warning strikes weekly until the end of February. The strikes begin tomorrow.
Weekly Strikes Planned
Strikes will now occur weekly, but at different locations. Tomorrow’s action will primarily affect the west and north of Hamburg, as well as lines in the districts of Pinneberg and Segeberg. Drivers from the Volkspark, Norderstedt, Quickborn, Elmshorn, and Schenefeld depots have been called to participate in the warning strike.
Impact on Service
The effects of the strike will be felt as far as Hamburg’s city center, as express and metro buses 1, 2, 3, and X3 will similarly be affected. The extent of service disruptions – whether lines will be completely or partially suspended – will be determined on Wednesday, once the level of participation is known.
Affected Bus Lines
The following VHH lines may experience cancellations: X3, X21, X95, 1, 2, 3, 15, 21, 22, 184, 185, 186, 188, 189, 195, 196, 281, 284, 285, 286, 288, 289, 384, 385, 388, 395, 488, 588, 594, 601, 7141, 193, 194, 278, 293, 294, 295, 296, 378, 393, 394, 478, 492, 493, 494, 578, 593, 594, 595, 793, and 794.
Other Services Unaffected
Unlike a previous warning strike, this action will only affect VHH buses. U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter rail) lines, AKN, and Hochbahn buses will continue to operate as usual. The labor dispute at VHH centers on reduced working hours and allowances.
Union Demands
Ver.di is demanding a 35-hour work week and a vacation allowance equal to half a month’s salary for VHH employees. The employer side has only offered a reduction in the working week by half an hour at the 2030/2031 schedule change and has not responded to the demand for vacation pay, according to ver.di. The fourth round of negotiations is scheduled for February 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cause of the strikes?
The strikes are due to a labor dispute between ver.di and VHH regarding working hours and allowances. Ver.di is demanding a 35-hour work week and vacation pay.
Which lines are affected by the strike?
A large number of VHH bus lines are potentially affected, including X3, X21, X95, 1, 2, 3, and many others. The full list of potentially affected lines is extensive.
Will other forms of public transport be affected?
No, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, AKN, and Hochbahn buses are expected to operate as usual.
As negotiations continue, how might these strikes impact commuters in the coming weeks?
