Public Transport Disruptions in Berlin Due to BVG Strike on Monday

On Monday, the public transport system in Berlin is set to face significant disruptions due to a warning strike called by the Verdi union, affecting operations of the BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe). This strike will result in a halt of services across various modes of public transport.

The strike is scheduled to begin at 3 AM on Monday and will last for a full 24 hours, concluding at 3 AM on Tuesday. As a result, all U-Bahn trains, trams, and most bus lines will be completely suspended during this period. There may be slight variations in the starting and ending times of the strike depending on specific shift plans, particularly affecting night buses that typically operate beyond 3 AM.

While the BVG services will be largely inactive, the S-Bahn and regional trains will continue to operate as usual. Additionally, the S-Bahn has announced that it will deploy extra trains on certain lines, specifically S1, S3, and S5, to accommodate commuters.

Services operated by other companies under contract with the BVG, such as the BVG Muva call bus and several ferry routes (F10, F11, F12), will not be affected by the strike. Furthermore, some bus lines that are operated by subcontractors or regional transport services will still run, particularly in the outskirts of Berlin.

The following bus lines are expected to maintain regular service: 106, 114, 118, 133, 161, 168, 175, 179, 204, 218, 234, 263, 275, 316, 318, 320, 326, 334, 349, 358, 363, and 380. Night services on lines N12, N23, N35, N39, N53, N61, N63, N69, N84, N91, N95, and N97 will also continue as scheduled.

However, some lines may face limitations, specifically routes X36, 112, 124, 184, 744, 893, and N68. Passengers are advised to check real-time updates through the BVG apps or the BVG website before their journeys.

With many commuters likely to switch to private vehicles due to the strike, traffic congestion is anticipated, particularly during peak hours. The traffic control center previously cautioned that significant delays could occur on major roads, especially on the city highways during busy travel times. Areas like the Charlottenburg and Neukölln interchanges, as well as the construction zone on the A115 at the Zehlendorf intersection, are expected to be particularly affected.

Drivers should also be prepared for potential delays on federal highways, including routes B1, B2, B5, B96, B96a, and B158. Real-time information and alternative routes can be accessed online through the Berlin Traffic Information Center.

For those seeking alternative transportation options, various private sharing services may provide viable choices. The 'Jelbi' app, for instance, allows users to book bicycles, e-scooters, and car-sharing vehicles. However, it is important to note that these services may be in high demand on strike days, and prices could be subject to dynamic adjustments, leading to potentially higher costs.

The ongoing labor dispute is expected to see further developments, with a demonstration planned outside the BVG headquarters on Monday. Negotiations between the union and BVG management are set to resume on Wednesday. Currently, the BVG has proposed a wage increase averaging 15.3% over four years, whereas Verdi is advocating for an immediate increase of at least 750 euros per month.