Train chaos in Lower Saxony: These routes are the least punctual!

Train chaos in Lower Saxony: These routes are the least punctual!

A current study shows that the Nordwestbahn regional train connection between Bremen, Vechta and Osnabrück was the least punctual in the northwest in 2024. According to the analysis by the Lower Saxony State Local Transport Company (LNVG), over 31 percent of the trains were late. A train is considered late if it arrives more than five minutes behind schedule. The details of this investigation demonstrate serious punctuality problems in the region.

In second place among the least punctual connections is the route between Hamburg, Winsen and Lüneburg (Metronom), which has just over 30 percent late trains. In addition, the line between Uelzen, Gifhorn and Braunschweig (Erixx) takes third place with more than 28 percent tardiness. A total of 53 connections in Lower Saxony and Bremen were analyzed, but complete train cancellations were not taken into account in this analysis.

Punctuality in comparison

Technical problems are common causes of the delays identified. Weather influences and the abandonment of long-distance trains also contribute to unpunctuality. In addition, on single-track regional routes it is difficult to overtake trains in the event of disruptions, which makes the situation even worse. There are harsh criticisms, particularly with regard to the connections that commuters regularly use.

• 1. Platz: Bremen – Vechta – Osnabrück (Nordwestbahn) – über 31% Verspätungen
• 2. Platz: Hamburg – Winsen – Lüneburg (Metronom) – über 30% Verspätungen
• 3. Platz: Uelzen – Gifhorn – Braunschweig (Erixx) – mehr als 28% Verspätungen

In positive contrast to these results is the connection between Bad Bentheim, Nordhorn and Neuenhaus (Bentheim Railway), which has an exceptionally high punctuality of over 99 percent. The route between Esens and Wilhelmshaven (Nordwestbahn) also shows a positive trend with a good 98 percent of trains on time. In addition, the connection between Braunschweig, Salzgitter and Lebenstedt (DB Regio Nord) achieved a punctuality of a good 97 percent.

The LNVG, a subsidiary of the state, is responsible for traffic planning and the creation of timetables. This study highlights the challenges facing regional transport in Lower Saxony and Bremen and underlines the need for investments in infrastructure and modernization of the vehicle fleet in order to improve punctuality.

Further information about the connections can be found on the website South Germans and the LNVG.