Ready for a Smoother Ride: Transport Minister Schneider Embraces Infrastructure Improvements for All
Minister Schneider, in his federal capacity, pledges enhancements across the board for all transportation entities. - Transport Minister Schnieder vows to enhance infrastructure for all travel methods
Listen up, folks! One key topic that's been making waves is the revamping of our country's crumbling infrastructure, including bridges, tunnels, roads, and railways. Transport Minister Schneider has pledged to take action, setting aside a specialized fund for just this purpose. But hang on, details like responsibilities and project funding have yet to be nailed down.
Minister Schneider's motto of "preservation over new construction" seems to be the guiding principle, and he's made it clear that our climate goals won't take a backseat. To ensure science, associations, and experts are on board from the get-go, he plans to establish an expert forum stat.
In the rail sector, Schneider's talking about boosting renovations of around 40 central railway corridors. He's even considering whether full closures are absolutely necessary in each case.
When it comes to cars, he's promoting "technological openness," but it's electromobility that's stealing the spotlight, with a focus on progress and responsibility. As for air traffic, he's promising lighter taxes, fees, and charges.
Now, let's dive a bit deeper into those promises.The government's launching a whopping €500 billion infrastructure fund, ready to supercharge investment across various sectors, all while bypassing the debt brake. Transport infrastructure itself received 26.4 billion euros last year, with rail getting the lion's share at 16.3 billion. Expect these numbers to increase, potentially by 40 to 50%, adding up to around 450 billion over a dozen years.
But it's not just about injection of cash. Simplification of permitting processes and a new federal planning and permitting law are also in the works, aiming to expedite infrastructure projects, including those for renewable energy.
Germany's climate and energy transition goals are a top priority, and these infrastructure investments are part of the larger strategy to bolster renewable energy and lower emissions. Deutsche Bahn AG, the rail operator, has voiced the need for additional investments of 150 billion euros. The government's equity increase in Deutsche Bahn forms part of the plan to support the rail infrastructure without violating the debt brake.
So, whether you're hopping on a train, driving your car, or taking to the skies, expect improvements across the board. And remember, these grand plans are all about turning our country's creaky infrastructure into a smooth, modern ride!
The Commission, with its expertise in the protection of workers from ionizing radiation, has also been consulted on the draft directive relating to infrastructure improvements, considering the potential risks from technology used in these projects.
In line with the government's push for progress, it is crucial to invest in education-and-self-development programs for the workforce, equipping them with the necessary skills to handle advanced technologies and embrace infrastructure advancements efficiently and safely.
