One month after the prohibition on alcohol consumption in train stations came into effect, Deutsche Bahn has drawn a first positive balance. DB security personnel have addressed over 15,000 people who were consuming alcohol at train stations since the nationwide regulation started, according to a Bahn employee from the Funke-Mediengruppe. In most cases, the addressed individuals were receptive, put the bottles away, or left the station. House bans were issued only in rare instances.
Since October 15, it has been forbidden throughout Germany to consume beer, wine, schnapps, or other alcoholic beverages in station halls or on platforms outside of gastronomy facilities.
The spokesperson continued, stating that the ban leads to less garbage, fewer conflicts, and generally a more pleasant environment for travelers and DB employees. With this, DB is implementing another step toward greater safety and cleanliness at train stations. According to a recent survey, 80 percent of respondents support a ban on alcohol consumption.
The alcohol consumption ban is implemented through standard patrols by teams from DB Sicherheit. The Bundespolizei is only called in as support in conflict situations. Deutsche Bahn reports that it has increased the number of its security personnel from 4,500 to 5,000 since last year. They ensure safety and instruct people who are drinking alcohol at the station.
