An unscheduled stop occurred on an Intercity Express (ICE) train traveling from Basel to Hamburg on Monday evening, prompting a response from emergency services. The train, designated ICE 72, halted shortly before its final destination at approximately 7:30 PM local time, stopping at Bad Bevensen station in Lower Saxony.
Prior to the stop, several passengers reported experiencing breathing difficulties during the journey. A train attendant also alerted authorities to a pungent odor detected within the carriages. Following these reports, the attendant contacted emergency responders and the police.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel noted that the strong odor had dissipated. The fire department conducted measurements to identify the substance responsible, but the results are currently pending.
Police confirmed that 39 passengers exhibited respiratory irritation and received on-site medical attention. Hospitalization was not required for any of the affected individuals. Following a brief delay of approximately one hour, the ICE 72 resumed its journey towards Hamburg.
The Federal Police have initiated an investigation into the incident. Efforts to determine the cause of the concerning odor and the reported respiratory issues are ongoing.
