Carinthian rail passengers demand more reliable services

Carinthian rail passengers are calling for more reliable train services and better coordination between trains and buses, according to a survey published by ORF. The Verkehrsclub Österreich, Austria’s transport organisation, surveyed more than 11,000 rail travellers across the country, including 351 passengers in Carinthia.

Passengers praised improvements in the frequency of services, passenger information and customer service. However, 43 percent said they had experienced more disruptions and cancelled trains. Many also wanted better punctuality and closer coordination between train and bus connections, said Christian Gratzer of the Verkehrsclub Österreich.

Gratzer said the nine railway companies covered by the survey, including ÖBB, Westbahn and Deutsche Bahn, should take passengers’ feedback seriously. He said the increase in cancellations and disruptions needed to be addressed, while well-timed connections were important to prevent passengers from missing a connecting train or bus.

The survey also found that 37 percent of Carinthian passengers had travelled by train more frequently over the previous 12 months. This was the highest figure among Austria’s federal states. Gratzer said the increase was partly linked to the Koralmbahn rail line and would help reduce traffic congestion and support climate protection.

Many Carinthian passengers also use trains for holiday travel. The Verkehrsclub Österreich said they wanted more direct connections to European cities, as well as improvements to the search and booking of international rail journeys.