ÖBB chief promises steps to improve train services

ÖBB chief executive Andreas Matthä has promised measures to improve rail services after commuters faced delays, cancellations and technical problems, ORF reported. The commitments followed a request from Lower Austria’s deputy governor, Udo Landbauer, for rapid improvements.

By the timetable change in December, ÖBB plans to make additional trains available as reserves to limit the effects of technical failures and short-notice service restrictions. It will also review and, where possible, improve operations at major rail hubs in Wiener Neustadt, St. Pölten and Amstetten to reduce missed connections.

The railway operator also plans to provide prompt information during disruptions, reduce disruption-related restrictions and use resources more efficiently.

Landbauer called Matthä’s response an important step, saying commuters must be able to rely on punctual trains and working connections. He said the focus now should be on delivering the improvements to passengers and providing information quickly, and that he intended to continue direct talks with ÖBB.