3rd round of German rail strikes hits passenger traffic

German train drivers have launched their third strike in a month in a running dispute over pay and conditions, the GDL train drivers' union confirmed to dpa early Thursday.

The strike targeted passenger services from 2 am (0000 GMT) Thursday, the union’s strike leadership told dpa.

Train drivers on cargo lines had kicked off the action starting at 5 pm (1500 GMT) on Wednesday. The industrial action is to continue up to Tuesday morning next week.

State-owned rail operator Deutsche Bahn had made a new offer to the union on Wednesday hours before the five-day strike was to go into effect.

So far, there has been no public reaction from the union to the new offer. The GDL is pushing for higher pay and better working conditions for employees.

Deutsche Bahn had argued there was now no need for train drivers to strike. "We are fulfilling the GDL's central demands," said Martin Seiler, member of the board of directors of Deutsche Bahn's personnel department.

The rail operator's new offer includes a Covid-19 bonus of up to 600 euros (707 dollars). Previously, Deutsche Bahn had not specified the amount of the bonus, which is one of GDL's demands.

Leaders of German industry have expressed sharp criticism of the rolling strikes hitting the country's rail services.

Deutsche Bahn said it was working to prioritize trains in coordination with its customers in an attempt to get key goods to their destinations with as little delay as possible.

The last strike ended a week ago.