German train drivers end 2-day rail strike

A rail strike called by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL) which disrupted long-distance rail travel for two days ended early Wednesday morning, union representatives and rail operator Deutsche Bahn confirmed, reported dpa.

Railway managers expected long-distance and regional traffic to normalize throughout the day, Deutsche Bahn said.

Customers were advised to check whether their train was running as scheduled before starting their journeys.

The strike had started on Saturday when GDL targeted freight services and was extended to long-distance rail traffic on Monday.

The conflict over wages remains unsolved, however. The train drivers' union has rejected the rail operator's latest proposed wage increase.

The GDL seeks a bonus of 600 euros (711 dollars) per driver, in addition to a 3.2-per-cent salary increase. It is also calling for a bonus for employees for having worked throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

The two sides are also still arguing about pensions and renewed strike action cannot be ruled out.