The Police Union (GdP) is strongly advocating for the expansion of alcohol bans at major train stations. Andreas Roßkopf, the GdP Chairman for Federal Police, told the “Rheinische Post” (Thursday edition) that reducing or even completely banning alcohol consumption is absolutely necessary. He further suggested that prohibiting the sale of alcohol in station businesses starting late in the evening would also be beneficial. According to him, statistical data indicates that aggression and violence often stem from individuals being heavily intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Roßkopf cited positive results achieved at Cologne Central Station, where alcohol prohibitions have been in place. He reported that the aggression levels at the Cologne station have decreased significantly, noting that excessive alcohol consumption is no longer a major issue. He added that stations are seeing fewer attendees who have no travel plans other than to consume alcohol, leading them to avoid the areas due to the bans.
However, the GdP also emphasizes that increasing security at stations requires more police officers. Roßkopf stated that the Federal Police are currently understaffed, noting that stations are lacking approximately 3,500 personnel needed for proactive patrols-a strategy focused on being present and preventing incidents before they occur.
The railway operator (DB) has also acknowledged the positive impact of alcohol prohibitions at stations. A DB spokesperson told the “Rheinische Post” that the company has observed a clear reduction in conflicts and altercations caused by alcohol intoxication across its stations. This, the spokesperson added, improves the sense of security for travelers and also helps reduce cleaning demands.
