Train with empty wagon: Health of passengers in danger!

Train with empty wagon: Health of passengers in danger!

In the past few weeks, a train on the route between Leipzig and Chemnitz causes a stir. An empty wagon is used as a so-called "odor buffer", because the first car behind the diesel locomotive of the regional express RE 6 is closed to passengers. The reason for this? A strong smell of diesel that can be found in the wagon. This reports Image .

The MRB, which is responsible for train traffic on this route, has blocked the corresponding wagon in both directions. There are also express buses that are used between Chemnitz and Leipzig to relieve travelers. Despite the inconveniences for passengers, who are tightly pushed in the remaining two double -decker wagons, the MRB emphasizes the safety and health of the travelers. An expert analyzed the air on the train and found that it is not entirely clean, even if the measurements in May showed that the stench itself is not demonstrably dangerous.

expected changes in train traffic

The diesel locomotive should remain on this route by the end of 2023, while the MRB is already planning new battery trains. Due to delivery delays, the use of the double -decker cars will extend until December 2025. "We ask for your understanding of this measure," said a spokesman for the MRB. During this time it is important that the health of passengers is in the top.

The problem of diesel exhaust gas is not new. Current discussions show that modern diesel engines are seen as potential “air washers” because they are supposed to clean the air instead of pollution. But these statements often come from manufacturers with self-interest, such as Auto Motor und Sport reports.

The challenge of air quality

Air quality in Germany has improved in the past decades, but according to the Environmental Federal Office are the concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (PM) and fine dust (PM) continued too high. This mainly affects urban areas, where asthmatics in particular are particularly affected. It is known that diesel emissions can also be risky for the health of the population, and the WHO has published new guidelines to counteract this.

The situation is therefore not only a challenge for passengers on the railway line between Leipzig and Chemnitz, but also represents another aspect of the debate about air quality and traffic. It is to be hoped that solutions will soon be found that are advantageous for both travelers and the environment.